Community Corner

Wet End to Summer Heading to Seminole Heights

Forecasters say a tropical disturbance near Mexico is increasing our chances for storms on this last weekend before the kids hit the books once more.

Seminole Heights residents hoping to hit the beach on this last weekend before school starts might want to rethink their plans or at least have an umbrella in tow.

The National Weather Service’s Ruskin office says Tampa Bay could be in for a rather wet few days courtesy of the “tropical disturbance” that’s hanging out in the Gulf near Mexico. While the storm isn’t likely to threaten Tampa Bay directly, it is kicking up some moisture in the region.

“Today (Friday, Aug. 16) we’ll be seeing 40 to 50 percent rain chances that will continue through the weekend,” said weather service meteorologist Tyler Fleming.  Some of the storms might include lightning. Gusty winds and small hail are also not out of the realm of possibility, he added.

Find out what's happening in Seminole Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The big concern for severe weather conditions comes courtesy of that tropical disturbance in the Gulf. If it kicks up, Fleming said, the potential for dangerous rip currents along Tampa Bay’s coast might, as well. Boaters and swimmers should keep that in mind, he said.

Even with the rain, Bay area residents should expect highs this weekend around 90, Fleming said. The lows will drop to the mid-70s to low 80s in most areas.

Find out what's happening in Seminole Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

What About Tropical Storm Erin?

This developing storm is still way off in the Atlantic and Fleming says doesn’t pose much of a threat to Tampa Bay at this point. The weather service, however, is keeping a close eye on it as it makes its way west from off the coast of Africa.

Get a complete forecast for the Seminole Heights area by visiting the National Weather Service online.


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