Good evening, Tampa Bay. We're wrapping up the day for you with the most important stories you need to know and your weather outlook.

Your Weather Planner

After a quiet morning on Wednesday, clouds will build and a few showers and storms will develop.

An east wind will become west around 10 mph.

Highs will reach the mid 80s.

High: 86

Low: 68

Rain Coverage: 30% 

Check your hour-by-hour forecast here | Share your weather photos

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Watch the latest news and more local stories from across the country.

Today's Big Stories

1. Biden announces 2024 reelection bid: 'Let's finish the job'
Joe Biden is officially running for reelection. The Democratic president announced in a video today that he is entering the race for the White House.

2. Harry Belafonte, activist and entertainer, dies at 96
Harry Belafonte, the civil rights and entertainment giant who began as a groundbreaking actor and singer and became an activist, humanitarian and conscience of the world, has died. He was 96.

3. Buccaneers set for NFL Draft as post-Brady revamping continues
Tampa Bay Buccaneers own 19th pick in the first round of the NFL Draft, which kicks off Thursday night

4. ispace trying to confirm landing of its HAKUTO-R lunar lander
Japanese company ispace is trying to confirm if its HAKUTO-R lunar craft landed on the moon this afternoon.

5. Recycled toilets to help with quality of Tampa Bay
Two local organizations have come together for a unique recycling opportunity using toilet bowls. They say the effort will ultimately help improve the quality of Tampa Bay.

6. Amendment seeks to give state oversight over Disney World monorail system
A new amendment to transportation bill SB 1250 could make Disney World’s monorail system subject to state inspections.

7. GM, Samsung plan new EV battery cell factory in U.S.
General Motors and South Korea's Samsung SDI plan to invest more than $3 billion in a new electric vehicle battery cell plant in the United States, the companies said today.

8. Tampa Bay Times: The $14.8 million next phase in USF’s on-campus stadium push
The figurative foundation for USF’s proposed on-campus football stadium is in place thanks to a $14.8 million design-build agreement between the Bulls and construction company Barton Malow.

 

Your Notes for Tonight and Tomorrow

  • TAMPA TRAFFIC ALERT: The southbound inner lane and the southbound right turn lane on Bruce . Downs Boulevard are now closed between University Square Drive and East Fowler Avenue while the Tampa Water Department conducts maintenance on the water distribution system. Restoration with a return to normal traffic patterns is expected by Friday, April 28. Plan your route ahead of time by using our Real Time Traffic Map.
  • RAYS VS. ASTROS, GAME 2: The Tampa Bay Rays seek a second win in their three-game series against the Houston Astros after coming off of a 8-3 victory. The Rays are still undefeated at home and have gone 3-0 in games decided by one run. The match starts at 6:40 p.m. at Tropicana Field.
  • PUPPY POOL PARTY: Southeastern Guide Dogs Inc. will be celebrating their dogs and trainers with a puppy pool "pawty" on Wednesday, April 26 at 10 a.m. Guests can also view guide dog skill demonstrations and enjoy playing with guide dogs in training. The festivites will be held at their location at 4210 77th Street East, Palmetto, 34221.

           
           NATIONAL NOTES        

           Wednesday, April. 26

  • U.S. Supreme Court hears tax foreclosure case 10am ET.
  • President Biden hosts South Korean president for a state visit. Expect joint remarks.
  • Asa Hutchinson announces presidential run 11:30am ET.
  • Pence Speaking at UNC

A+ Teacher:

 

A+ Teacher spent a career showing kids beauty in art

For 39 years, Kelly Warne has taught students that the sky’s the limit when it comes to art. Now, as Warne is nearing retirement, the Oneco Elementary School art teacher is being hailed as an A+ Teacher.