Workweek Weather: Beach Warnings Issued

Tampa Bay area residents are likely to enjoy a slightly cooler start to the week, but the lower temperatures may come at a price.

The National Weather Service is warning of the potential for beach hazards as elevated westerly winds increase the chances for rip current formation along area coastlines. A beach hazards statement was issued Monday morning for Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee and Sarasota counties. The warning remains in effect through Monday evening.

Rip currents are strong channels of water that flow away from shore. Swimmers are advised to stay calm if caught up in one and swim parallel to shore. Once away from the current’s force, a return to shore is recommended. The weather service’s forecasters are urging beachgoers to pay attention to lifeguard warnings.

Aside from rip current risks, the workweek is shaping up to be a relatively normal one for summertime. Residents can expect temperatures near the 90s most days and thunderstorm chances throughout the week. Here’s a look at the daily breakdown:

Monday

• High temperature – Near 90
• Low temperature – Upper 70s
• Storm chances – 60 percent in the morning and afternoon; 30 percent in the evening

Tuesday

• High temperature – Around 90
• Low temperature – Upper 70s
• Storm chances – 30 percent in the afternoon; partly cloudy overnight

Wednesday

• High temperature – Low to mid-90s
• Low temperature – Upper 70s
• Storm chances – About 30 percent in the afternoon and 20 percent in the nighttime hours

Thursday

• High temperature – Around 90
• Low temperature – Upper 70s
• Storm chances – About 30 percent in the daytime and 20 percent overnight

Friday

• High temperature – Around 90
• Low temperature – Upper 70s
• Storm chances – About 30 percent

For an extended forecast for your part of the Bay, visit your local Patch’s homepage.

Patch file photo