Tampa, Fla. – A surge of tropical moisture is moving into Florida this weekend, bringing periods of heavy rain and a risk of flooding from Sarasota through the Tampa Bay region and down into southwest Florida. Drivers may encounter ponding on roadways as storms intensify through Saturday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, showers already spread into southwest Florida early this morning, with heavier downpours expected to push into west central Florida this afternoon and evening. The system could drop up to 1.5 inches of rain across the region, and isolated spots may receive several inches more.
Cities including Fort Myers, Naples, Sarasota, and Tampa face the greatest chance for flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Commuters along I-75 and U.S. 41 may see slow travel and water pooling on roadways, while neighborhoods prone to flooding could experience minor water intrusions.
Residents are urged to allow extra time for travel, avoid driving through flooded streets, and keep storm drains clear of debris. The unsettled weather may linger into early evening before gradually tapering off. Additional alerts could be issued if rainfall totals increase.
