Radar Shows Tornado Near Gulfport, Residents Report Damage

The National Weather Service Doppler radar shows a tornado near Gulfport and St. Pete Beach moving north at 30 mph. There was a waterspout off the coast, according to the National Weather Service.

A tornado warning stays in effect. At 9:57 a.m., the radar indicated a tornado near Guflport.

Waterspouts off the coast are an indication that a tornado may form on land. As water spouts move ashore, they become tornadoes.

The following communities are advised to take caution: Gulfport, St. Pete Beach, downtown St. Petersburg near Tropicana Field, Lealman, Swagrass Lake Park, Pinellas Park. This includes I-275 between Exits 6 and 32.

If you are in the path of a tornado, go into an interior room in a strong, well-constructed building. Cars and mobile homes are not safe.

Call 813-645-2323 to reports severe weather.