Rip Currents A Concern As Cold Front Nears

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay area residents and visitors are being asked to take care on local waters as a high risk of rip currents is expected along the region’s coastline. A strong cold front expected to move into the area Wednesday also has forecasters at the National Weather Service warning of the potential for thunderstorms and rough conditions for boaters as the week progresses.

Tuesday’s rip current statement covers the coastal areas of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties. The risk for dangerous currents in these areas is expected to remain high until late Tuesday night at least, the weather service reported.

Rip currents are channels of water that flow rapidly away from shore. They can pull swimmers out into the water, making it difficult for them to return to dry land.

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“If you become caught in a rip current, yell for help,” the weather service’s warning stated. “Remain calm. Do not exhaust yourself and stay afloat while waiting for help.”

If swimming back to shore is the only option, the service recommends swimming parallel to shore and then back toward land when possible. “Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current as you will tire quickly,” the agency noted.

Beachgoers are being asked to keep an eye out for flags and signs and to pay attention to the advice of life guards before getting into the water at local beaches.

While rip currents are the main concern in the weather department on Tuesday, forecasters say a strong cold front is expected to reach the region by Wednesday night. The day is expected to start off mostly sunny with a high in the upper 80s. As the evening progresses, however, storm chances are expected to rise with rain likely to continue well into Thursday.

Forecasters warn that thunderstorms that precede the cold front may be capable of producing gusty winds, heavy rain and frequent lightening strikes. Boaters are also being warned that conditions may not be safe for small craft operators Wednesday night and early Thursday.

Once the storms pass, the Tampa Bay area is in for a string of mild days, forecasters say. Thursday is expected to shape up with a high in the mid-70s and an overnight low in the upper 50s. Friday’s high is forecast to only reach the low 70s with an overnight low in the low 50s. Saturday is expected to deliver similar conditions.

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

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