Isolated Tornadoes Possible As Front Moves Into Tampa Bay Area

TAMPA, FL — As a late spring cold front makes its way into the Tampa Bay area, forecasters at the National Weather Service are warning of the potential for rough conditions on land and local waters over the next few days.

The front “is expected to bring the threat of widespread heavy rainfall and a few strong/severe storms late Tuesday night through Wednesday night,” the weather service’s Tampa Bay office warned on Facebook Tuesday morning. “The main weather threats during this period will be localized flooding, damaging winds, and the potential for isolated tornadoes.”

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While Tuesday is anticipated to bring partly sunny conditions at first, forecasters say things will change heading into the afternoon hours. Thunderstorm chances are expected to increase in the region as the day progresses. Breezy conditions have also prompted a lake wind advisory for the day and evening hours. Tuesday’s high is expected to only reach the upper 80s with an overnight low in the upper 70s.

The Tampa Bay area is expected to feel the cold front’s biggest impacts on Wednesday when forecasters say windy conditions and thunderstorms are likely throughout the day into the overnight hours. The day’s high is expected to reach only the low 80s with an overnight low in the low 70s likely.

Boaters and beach goers are also being warned of the potential dangers the front poses to them. A high risk of rip currents is expected along Tampa Bay area beaches through Wednesday night. Wind speeds of up to 33 knots are expected on Gulf of Mexico waters. Small craft operators are being warned to reconsider venturing out onto area lakes and along coastal areas until the front passes by.

Waterspouts are also a concern. In Tuesday’s Hazardous Weather Outlook report, forecasters wrote that atmospheric conditions would be ripe for their development on Wednesday. “Mariners should be on the lookout for waterspouts,” the service warned.

Thursday is also anticipated to start off with stormy conditions. The day’s high is forecast to reach the low 80s. By the evening hours, however, forecasters expect storms to clear out of the region. A clear night with a low in the upper 60s is expected. Friday is expected to bring a return of sunshine.

For an extended look at the forecast in your neighborhood, visit your local Patch’s homepage.

Patch file photo