Tampa, Florida — A line of strong to severe thunderstorms will push across west-central Florida this afternoon and evening, bringing damaging winds, isolated tornado risk and heavy rain that could disrupt travel from mid-afternoon through tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, storms will begin developing around 2 p.m., with the most intense activity expected between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. across Tampa, St. Petersburg, Brooksville, Lakeland and Sarasota. Areas along the Nature Coast face the highest threat level, where stronger storms may develop.
Wind gusts up to 60 mph could down trees and power lines, while large hail and isolated tornadoes are possible in stronger cells. Heavy rain may quickly overwhelm drainage systems, leading to water pooling on I-75, I-275 and U.S. 19. Low-lying intersections, coastal roads and underpasses in Tampa and St. Petersburg could flood within minutes during intense downpours, reducing visibility and increasing crash risk.
This is part of a broader system moving across the Florida peninsula, combining warm, unstable air with an approaching boundary to trigger severe storms.
Residents should secure outdoor items, avoid driving during heavy rain and move indoors immediately when lightning is detected.
The greatest window for severe weather will occur between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., when storms are most likely to produce damaging winds, isolated tornadoes and rapid roadway flooding.
