Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued For Tampa Bay

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL -- A severe thunderstorm warning has been extended until 2 p.m. for eastern Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando counties and western Polk County.

A waterspout came on shore near Madeira Beach shortly after noon Sunday, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a tornado warning, which expired at 12:45 p.m. There have been reports of trees and power lines down in Clearwater.

At 12:43 p.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 11 miles west of Beacon Square to near Palm Harbor to Seminole to near Tierra Verde, moving northeast at 40 mph.

A wind gust of 58 mph was reported at Indian Rocks Beach.

Residents can expect damage to roofs, siding and trees.

The National Weather Service in Ruskin has also issued a Special Marine Warning for coastal waters from Englewood to Tarpon Springs. There is a possibility of waterspouts and wind gusts of 34 knots or greater.

Waterspouts can quickly form and capsize boats, damage vessels and create suddenly higher waves. Make sure all on board are in a secure location and wearing life jackets. Expect wind gusts in excess of 34 knots, suddenly higher waves, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours.

Locations impacted include Terra Ceia Bay, Manatee Nearshore Reef, D5 Reef, Englewood, Howard Frankland Bridge, Madeira Beach Reef, Longboat Key, Venice Inlet, Cockroach Bay, Md1 Reef, M7 Reef, Anna Maria Island, Hernando Beach, M8 Reef, M17 Reef, Pass-A-Grille Channel, Southwest Channel, D6 Reef, M1 Reef and Tampa Bay.

Frequent lightning is occurring with these storms. If caught on the open water, stay below deck if possible and keep away from ungrounded metal objects.