LAKELAND, Fla. — The threat of severe weather continues Thursday, however, the overall threat is coming down just a touch.
A severe thunderstorm warning was issued through 9:45 p.m. for parts of Hernando, Citrus and Pasco counties. The t-storm warning extended through 10 p.m. for parts of Hillsborough, Manatee and Pinellas counties.
Damage to roofs, siding and trees was possible; 60 mph wind gusts were also possible under the severe thunderstorm warning.
Reports showed at least 9,000 people without power Thursday night following severe storms that rolled through the area. Strong thunderstorms also caused flight delays at Tampa International Airport.
We have seen three days in a row with unusually large hail across parts of the Florida peninsula with baseball size hail in the Clermont area Monday and so much hail yesterday on the east coast that it could be measured by a ruler in spots. Now today we saw several tornado reports across the Panhandle region.
The Storm Prediction Center has a slight risk (2 out of 5) for severe storms on Florida’s east coast into tonight. The Tampa area is under a marginal, level 1 out of 5, risk for severe weather.
A band of weakening storms will work through the area this evening into the early overnight hours. Highest rain chances will be the Tampa area and north towards the Nature Coast. Gusty winds will be the biggest threat with this line of storms. Rain showers and storms will dissipate by the early morning hours.
A marginal risk for severe weather will continue for Friday. Mostly cloudy skies with areas of storms around the midday hours. Gusty winds and hail will be possible in some of the stronger storms Friday.
Saturday looks to only bring a stray storm or two. Sunday will bring our best chance for widespread showers and storms, but it also brings a cold front that will put an end to this unsettled trend and bring cooler and drier air for most of next week.