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Strong storms cause damage in Largo, tear down power lines in Hernando County

A powerful storm system moving across the country is bringing another round of unsettling weather to Tampa Bay.
Credit: 10 Tampa Bay

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla — 8:13 p.m.

Thousands of people living in the Tampa Bay area are without power. Click here for the latest outage updates.

8:07 p.m.

10 Tampa Bay Photojournalist Carter Schumacher captured photos of a structure torn apart by strong winds at Ranchero Village in Largo. The mobile home park isn't far from the intersection of Ulmerton Road and South Belcher Road.

Credit: 10 Tampa Bay

7:52 p.m.

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office says it has gotten "numerous calls" related to severe weather and knows several trees and power lines are down.

"Please avoid driving if possible, as conditions are somewhat hazardous at this time," the sheriff's office wrote in an update. "Crews are currently working to clear trees, debris, and power lines from the roadways."

7:45 p.m.

Meteorologist Natalie Ferrari says there have been numerous reports of 50-60 mph wind gusts tonight across the Tampa Bay area.

7:12 p.m.

A severe thunderstorm warning has now been extended until 7:30 p.m. for Pinellas County and southwest Hillsborough County. Wind gusts near 60-mph are possible.

> Watch live coverage from Chief Meteorologist Bobby Deskins

6:26 p.m.

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for parts of Hernando, Pinellas, Citrus and Pasco County until 7:15 p.m.

1:13 p.m.

A high wind advisory has been issued for the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Drivers are asked to use caution when traveling the roughly 430-foot-tall bridge.

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Earlier reporting:

Off the coattails of a cold front that is sweeping the country, a very organized line of showers and storms is currently pushing through the Tampa Bay area. 

10 Tampa Bay meteorologists are tracking the potential for some storms to reach severe criteria as there is enough upper-level support for strong and possibly damaging winds. A waterspout or tornado in the area also can't be ruled out. 

The Storm Prediction Center has the entire Tampa Bay area at a "marginal" risk for severe weather, meaning the risk is relatively low; but at this point in the season, we should all know to stay aware as these types of systems roll in.          

Abundant lightning and heavy downpours are also likely as the line continues to move through.

All threats for severe weather are forecasted to be cleared up before Christmas morning. People living in the Bay area can expect to see cold temperatures and a mix of sun and clouds throughout the day on Dec. 25.

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