Advisory Raised To Coastal Flood Warning; Severe Storms Predicted

TAMPA BAY, FL — An earlier coastal flood watch has been elevated to a coastal flood warning for Tampa Bay Saturday night into Sunday night, according to the National Weather Service.

Onshore winds, high waves and a strong cold front could lead to the flooding of low-lying spots on the coast, especially at high tide Saturday and Sunday night, and on-shore winds and severe storms.

A high surf advisory was also issued Saturday and is in effect from 3 a.m. Sunday until 8 p.m. Monday.

A high rip current risk is in effect from Saturday night through Tuesday morning.

Residents can expect large breaking waves of 7 to 9 feet and dangerous rip currents along coastal Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Pinellas, Charlotte and Lee counties.

They will create dangerous swimming and surfing conditions, along with localized beach erosion.
Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.

The cold front could also produce severe storms with high winds throughout the region from Tampa Bay north early Sunday morning with a marginal risk of impacting the entire Tampa Bay area.

Strong southerly winds will develop ahead of the cold front. creating a risk for coastal flooding Saturday night and Sunday. This will be a long duration coastal flood event with flooding possible during multiple high-tide cycles as westerly winds remain strong into Monday.

Residents are asked to:

• Review your emergency plans and supplies.
• Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.
• Sign up for alerts in your county.
• Monitor weather reports frequently.