Community Corner

Summery Weekend for Tampa Bay Despite Tropical Storm Karen

Forecasters say the only real risk the storm will deliver here is the potential for strong rip currents in Bay area waters.

This story was written by Associate Regional Editor Sherri Lonon.

Just because Tropical Storm Karen is spinning in the Gulf of Mexico doesn’t mean Tampa Bay’s weekend will be ruined.

That’s the word from the National Weather Service as the newly formed storm makes its way north – well away from Tampa Bay.

Find out what's happening in Land O' Lakeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The region is in for a pretty typical sunny weekend, said meteorologist Rodney Wynn.

While highs are expected to hover in the upper 80s to low 90s and rain chances are low, as well, there is one caution Bay area residents should heed, Wynn said.

Find out what's happening in Land O' Lakeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“The strongest risk during the weekend is going to be with the storm in the Gulf (there is) a moderate risk of rip currents,” he said. That means those who go on the water should “take caution when they’re out there.”

Rain chances are low on Saturday; about 20 percent for isolated thunderstorms. They rise to about 30 percent for scattered storms on Sunday. “Otherwise, (it’s going to be) mostly sunny to partly cloudy.”

For a complete look at Land O' Lakes area weather, visit the National Weather Service online.

Land O' Lakes Patch is your place to turn when Florida’s weather turns less than friendly. You can catch up on the latest forecast here and even share what’s happening on your street on our boards. Just post your weather photos, storm-related closings and more right to the site to connect with your neighbors right away.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Land O' Lakes