While March 12, 1993, went down in the history books as being the day the “Storm of the Century” hit Florida’s Gulf Coast, this year’s weather should be a little milder.
Even so, forecasters are saying Land O' Lakes residents should pull out those umbrellas and prepare for a potentially wet night tonight, March 11, and an even wetter day March 12.
The forecast for this evening, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Richard Rude, calls for a slight chance of rain. Those chances will “increase overnight after midnight,” Rude said. We’re looking at “some breezy conditions with gusts around 25 mph.”
Tuesday, March 12, is anticipated to be a rather cloudy day with “showers likely and a slight chance of thunderstorms in the morning,” Rude added. The wet weather should move out of the area by Tuesday night. Sunny, but cooler conditions are expected to arrive on Wednesday.
How Likely is a No Name Storm Repeat?
Though it’s true a cold front is moving into the Tampa Bay area, Rude said a repeat of the 1993 storm is “probably not likely.”
That particular storm was a “No-Name March hurricane,” according to a media release from the National Weather Service. It brought with it wind gusts that topped 90 mph, a deadly storm surge and tornadoes.
“The fast moving squall line produced 59,000 cloud to ground lightning strikes as it moved onshore,” the release said. “At least 11 tornadoes were reported with the storm as it crossed the state.”
To find out more about the March 1993 storm, visit the National Weather Service online.
Want to find out what the forecast is for Land O' Lakes this week? Just check the weather service’s 7-day forecast for the area.
What do you remember most about the March 1993 “Storm of the Century?” Share your recollections in the comments section. If you have photos of the aftermath, upload them to this story, too!
