As Tropical Storm Debby continues to develop in the Gulf of Mexico, we will have LIVE updates as the storm continues to impact Florida:
9:00 a.m.
Manatee Co. officials: Upper Manatee River Rd has been reopened to traffic.
7:00 a.m.
Pasco officials watching flood waters from Anclote and the Pithlachascotee rivers. Some residents forced from homes overnight.
5:00 a.m.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge reopened to traffic.
Wednesday
10 p.m.
Sinkhole closes Jerry Smith Road north and southbound from W.O. Griffin Road to Touchstone Road in eastern Hills. Co.
8 p.m.
Debby weakens to tropical depression. Tropical Storm Warning for Bay area coast discontinued.
6:30 p.m.
In Hillsborough County, a Health Advisory has been issued for the following beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the EPA:
*Ben T. Davis, (North, and South)
*Cypress Point, (North, and South)
*Davis Island
*Simmons Park
5:30 p.m.
Since Debby is still a tropical storm, the Tropical Storm Warning for the entire Bay area coastline remains.
5:13 p.m.
A local state of emergency has been declared for Citrus County.
5 p.m.
T.S. Debby makes landfall north of Cedar Key
4:37 p.m.
12 Hour Rainfall Totals through 2 pm this afternoon:
Brooksville 15.39
Tarpon Springs 14.55
Largo 14.05
Oldsmar 12.96
Dunedin 12.64
Pinellas Park 12.35
Clearwater 10.72
Tampa Int’l 10.48
Wimauma 10.27
Oldsmar 10.24
Bradenton 9.99
Lithia 9.97
MacDill 9.51
St. Petersburg 9.41
Winter Haven 7.35
Lake Wales 6.31
3:10 p.m.
The center of Tropical Storm Debby will move onshore in Dixie Co. (north of Cedar Key) this afternoon. This will focus west winds into Yankeetown (just north of Citrus) with water as high as 6 feet, according to Bay News 9 Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay.
2:35 p.m.
Pinellas County Parks and Conservation Resources Department temporarily closes portions of Fort De Soto, Fred Howard and Sand Key parks due to unsafe surf conditions and tidal flooding.
1:45 p.m.
Wind, waves, flooding still affecting Manatee County locations. Gamble Creek flooding in Parrish prompts closing of Jim Davis Rd.
12:55 p.m.
Officials are watching the Withlacoochee River in Hernando County due to Tropical Storm Debby's rainfall. But for now, flood warnings for the Withlacoochee at Trilby and Croom have been cancelled. The warnings had been issued earlier Tuesday.
11 a.m.
Tampa Police Marine Patrol rescues two baby manatees
The manatee calves washed ashore along flooded Bayshore Boulevard this morning with their mother, who was dead. Officers called Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to help with the rescue. The calves will be transported to the zoo.
10:23 a.m.
Officials are going door to door in parts of eastern Pasco County to institute the mandatory evacuation order. Shelters have been opened for residents who need them.
9:56 a.m.
Emergency operations officials in Hernando County are monitoring the Withlacoochee River, which they said may reach flood stage due to heavy rainfall. Residents along the river are asked to monitor the status of the river and evacuate if flooding starts to occur.
9:21 a.m.
The National Weather Service announces that Tampa has reached a record level of rainfall for the month of June, with 18.63 inches of rain. This broke the last record set in 1945, when Tampa received 18.52 inches of rain.
8:51 a.m.
More road closures announced throughout Pasco County.
Check out the list here
6:30 a.m.
The Sunshine Skyway remains shut down due to high winds. It's unclear when it will be reopened. All other Bay aea bridges are open.
5 a.m.
Debby continues moving slowly eastward while maintaining its strength.
Debby is moving toward the east near 3 mph. A slow eastward or east-northeastward motion is expected during the next couple of days. On this track, the center of Debby will move over northern Florida in the next day or two.
Maximum sustained winds are near 45 mph, with higher gusts. Little change in strength is expected until the center moves over land.
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Tuesday, June 25
11:30 p.m.
NB Howard Frankland reopened
10 p.m.
EB Courtney Campbell Causeway closed due to debris in road. Crews working to have it cleared.
9:45 p.m.
Tornado threat to expire at 11 p.m. It's not expected to be extended at this time.
8:30 p.m.
The Courtney Campbell Causeway is OPEN for now, but that may change.
8:21 p.m.
SB lanes of Howard Frankland reopened, NB lanes still closed
8 p.m.
BREAKING: Courtney Campbell Causeway closed, per Pinellas County EOC
7:26 p.m.
Tornado WARNING in effect for southeastern Hillsborough, western Polk (Lakeland, Mulberry) until 7:45 p.m.
6:40 p.m.
BREAKING - Howard Frankland Bridge Closed
Howard Frankland Bridge closed due to high winds, surf and flooding. Currently, surf and swells are affecting all eight lanes of traffic in both directions. Northbound traffic on I-275 will be diverted at Gandy Blvd while southbound traffic will be diverted at Kennedy Blvd.
6:06 p.m.
BREAKING - Maderia Beach
Pinellas SO says Gulf Blvd. now CLOSED in both directions between 150th to 135th Ave. due to an aluminum roof ripped of Madeira Beach condo complex @ 13704 Gulf Blvd. High winds lifted off half of a 20 x 20 foot metal roof.
Deputies will cut power off in a 4-block radius. They urge citizens to avoid the area if possible. Road may stay closed for several hours.
5:47 p.m.
HART bus service update:
HART bus service has experienced minor schedule delays and temporary detours, but there have been no major service disruptions or suspensions today. Currently, Route 19, which serves downtown Tampa to Port Tampa via Tampa General Hospital and Britton Plaza, is on detour to avoid the area of Interbay Boulevard and Manhattan Avenue due to a road closure.
5:38 p.m.
CLOSURE -
Northbound Suncoast Parkway CLOSED from State Road 50 to U.S. 98 in Hernando County.
5:34 p.m.
Progress Energy outage update - About 20,000 customers still without power. Full restoration may take several days in some areas.
5:20 p.m.
Clearwater Police are keeping the Courtney Campbell Causeway bridge open at this time. However there is water on the access road. The boat ramp and Ben T. Davis Beach are CLOSED.
5:07 p.m.
BREAKING - Pinellas County EMS reports roof being ripped of Madeira Beach condo complex @ 13704 Gulf Blvd. High winds now have lifted off half of a 20 x 20 foot metal roof. Southbound Gulf Blvd. shutdown from 137th Ave. to 140th Ave.
5:06 p.m.
Hernando County road closures
- Spring Hill Drive from the Hernando County Jail to FDOT Office (Flooding)
- Mariner Bv. from Little St. to Claymore St. (Sinkhole)
- Claymore St. at Keeport Dr. (Sinkhole)
- Citrus Way at US98 (Flooding)
- Old Crystal River Rd. at Ajax St. (Flooding)
- Richloam Clay Sink Rd. at Cortez Bv. (SR50) (Tree down)
- Eppley Dr. at Trudy Ln. (Flooding)
- Croom Rd. from Broad St. east to Mcintyre Rd. (Flooding)
- Clinton Dr. from Cortez Bv. to Providence Bv. (Flooding)
- Rosewood Dr. at Lynbrook Ln. (Flooding)
4:54 p.m.
UPDATE - Tropical Storm Debby 5 p.m. advisory from the Weather on the Nines Forecast Center:
Winds remain @ 45 mph, moving NE @ 5 mph, center located about 30 miles SSW of Apalachicola, Florida
TROPICAL STORM WARNINGS continue for Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee
TORNADO WATCH continues through 11 p.m.
4:45 p.m.
TECO update - about 8,500 customers still without power. Tampa Electric’s restoration will be aided by about 50 linemen from Sumter Utility in Alabama, who are expected to arrive by noon Tuesday. The fastest way to report a power outage is through the utility’s automated line, (877) 588-1010.
4:40 p.m.
Red Cross opening a shelter in Hernando County around 7 pm.
- Ridge Manor Community Center, 34450 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34604 at 7 p.m.
“We urge everyone to follow the advice of their local officials and evacuate immediately if told to do so,” said Chad Magnuson, Chief Emergency Services Officer. “The Red Cross is opening a shelter in Brooksville, and we have shelters on standby in Citrus, Marion, and Sumter counties.”
The Red Cross recommends bringing two blankets for each person, prescription medications, two or three changes of clothing per person, hygiene items, emergency contact information, and important documentation – such as ID, proof of residence, and insurance policies.
4:23 p.m.
St. Petersburg sandbags
The City of St. Petersburg is making sand bags available today from 3:30 to 8 p.m. and from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday at:
- Northeast Park, 875 62nd Avenue NE (located at the Cardinal Drive entrance to Mangrove Bay Golf Course).
Ten bags per vehicle are allowed. The city will issue bags for residents to fill with sand and load their own vehicles. (City staff will assist those unable to do so.) Residents with city-issued bags from previous storms are encouraged to bring them to refill. Residents are also asked to have identification verifying city residency - a Florida driver's license is preferred.
4:19 p.m.
Pasco County update:
Residents in Fairway Springs and along Elfers Parkway are likely to continue to experience street flooding and flooding of low lying homes is possible.
The communities of Thousand Oaks and Trinity Oaks are experiencing widespread flooding due to the saturation of wetlands and flooded streets. Residents who would like to evacuate should contact the Resident Information Center at 727-847-8959.
Public Safety crews will be driving through the neighborhood between 5 and 8 pm to provide transportation out of the flood areas to either the staging area at the northwest corner of Little Road and Mitchell Boulevard (Sweetbay Shopping Center) or to the Fasano Hurricane Shelter on Denton Avenue. Residents who wish to evacuate to friends, relatives, or hotels, should have their private transportation provider meet them at the staging area.
Sand and sandbags are available at:
- West Pasco Government Center, 7536 State St., New Port Richey
- 7918 Rhodes Road, Hudson, Fire Station #10
- 2952 Seven Springs Road, New Port Richey, Fire Station #17
- 6907 Dairy Road, Zephyrhills, Fire Station#1
4:10 p.m.
City of Gulfport offering sand, north side of City Hall parking lot
2401 51st St. S.
Sandbags @ Gulfport City Hall
2401 53rd St. S.
For more info, Call 727-893-1089
4:07 p.m.
Tampa Red Cross is requesting all trained Red Cross volunteers in the area to report their availability by calling (813) 868-7660.
4:00 p.m.
Weather on the Nines Update:
Squall lines coming ashore along the Gulf coast. Expect periods of heavy rain and winds gusting to 45 mph.
3:50 p.m.
BREAKING - Evacuations underway in Hillsborough County between 11721 and 11737 15th Street due to flooding. Officials say they need to cut power there because of high water.
A shelter is opening at Greco Middle School, 6925 East Fowler Avenue, for displaced residents.
3:36 p.m.
Road Closures for Hillsborough County continue
- Portions of Fletcher Avenue from N. 12th Street to N. 15th Street for at least 24 hours. Eastbound traffic is reduced to one lane.
- Hillsborough from Hanley Kelly Road to the Veterans Expressway (road closed)
- Hanley Road from Hillsborough Avenue to Hanna Avenue (road closed)
- Memorial Highway from George Road to Dana Shores Drive
- Twin Branch Acres Road along Double Branch Creek
- West Park Village Drive
- Ehrlich Road at Winterwind
- Knollwood at Hesperedes
- West Powhattan from Town 'N Country Boulevard to the west
- Brunswick Road from Hillsborough Avenue to the south
2:17 p.m.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge to remain closed indefinitely. Winds reported at 52 mph by the Florida Highway Patrol. Interstate 275 is closed southbound and traffic remains diverted at State Road 682 (Pinellas Bayway) with traffic also diverted northbound in Manatee County.
2:14 p.m.
Manatee County EOC has met, at level 3 monitoring and reporting 15,000 people with electricty problems, still 4,000 without power.
Manatee County SO - Flooding on Anna Maria Island, Golf Course Road and Rye Road
Seven boats stuck under pier at Bradenton Beach. Asking for help to get them out.
Asking folks not to go out to the beaches
2:05 p.m.
UPDATE: Debby advisory 2 p.m.
Winds still at 45 mph, moving NE at 4 mph, center about 50 miles SSW of Apalachicola Florida.
Tornado Watch extended for entire Bay area until 11:00 p.m.
Includes Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Polk, Manatee
2:00 p.m.
Hillsborough County Sunshine Line and Fire Rescue are assisting with the evacuation of Sunshine Village in the USF area due to flooding. Additional evacuations could be possible due to life safety concerns.
1:55 p.m.
Clearwater Road Closures
Enterprise Road between Village Drive and Frisco Drive.
Smallwood Cir.
Glenwood Ave.
Rosewood St.
Rosemere St.
1:09 p.m.
Flooding Upate
A River Flood Warning continues for:
- The Anclote River at Elfers
- The Little Manatee River at Wimauma
- The Hillsborough River near Zephyhills
- The Cypress Creek at Worthington Gardens
- The Alafia River at Lithia
- The Manatee River at Myakka Head
- The Myakka River at the Myakka River State Park
12:52 p.m.
UPDATE - Hillsborough County Road Closures
- Portions of Fletcher Avenue from N. 12th Street to N. 15th Street for at least 24 hours. Eastbound traffic is reduced to one lane.
- Hillsborough from Hanley Kelly Road to the Veterans Expressway (road closed)
- Hanley Road from Hillsborough Avenue to Hanna Avenue (road closed)
- Memorial Highway from George Road to Dana Shores Drive
- Twin Branch Acres Road along Double Branch Creek
- West Park Village Drive
- Ehrlich Road at Winterwind
- Knollwood at Hesperedes
- West Powhattan from Town 'N Country Boulevard to the west
- Brunswick Road from Hillsborough Avenue to the south
Sandbags Available:
Sandbags are available to the public at the following locations:
- West Service Unit. 9805 Sheldon Drive
- South Service Unit - 8718 Old Big Bend Road in Gibsonton
12:49 p.m.
BREAKING: Florida Gov. Rick Scott declares State of Emergency for Florida ahead of approaching Tropical Storm Debby.
12:43 p.m.
From Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay.. A River Flood Warning is in effect for the Manatee River at Rye Bridge. Minor flooding is forecast this afternoon. Crest 11.1' Flood is 11.0
Follow @BN9weather on Twitter
12:39 p.m.
Pinellas County declares State of Local Emergency
The resolution also provides for the acquisition and distribution of supplies, materials, facilities, and the appropriation and expenditure of public funds to implement civil preparedness actions.\
Residents of Pinellas County are urged to continue monitoring the news media for up-to-date information regarding Tropical Storm Debby.
12:25 p.m.
TIA experiencing numerous flight delays. Be sure to check with your airline for updated departure and arrival times.
12:04 p.m.
Power outage update:
Progress Energy - 9,908
TECO - 7,411
Lakeland Electric, FPL - scattered outages
11:57 a.m.
Clearwater Beach Update
Several lifeguard stations are partially buried due to erosion and storm surge. Since they are unstable, they are currently not being manned. To ensure the safety of our beach patrons/visitors, people are being allowed to access the sand but NOT the surf. The surf is dangerous and there is also a potential debris hazard.
Flooding:
Areas of Clearwater Beach that are still flooded include:
Carlouel Area: approximately 80% flooded, though passable in most areas North Beach Area: approximately 40% flooded, though drivable.
Sand Key Park: still principally flooded.
Damage Assessment:
There is some residential property damage on north Clearwater Beach.
Fortunately, the amount of property damage overall at the beach is minimal and includes a few downed wired (not live) and damaged trees.
11:35 a.m.
Hillsborough County Facilities Inaccessible due to flooding:
Town ‘N Country Commons - Library, Senior Center and Head Start
7606 Paula Drive, Suite 120
Tampa, FL 33615-4116
813-273-3652
The Upper Tampa Bay Trail - Trailheads
The trailheads are located within the residential areas of northwest Hillsborough County. The trail runs along the west shore of Channel A from a trailhead off Memorial Highway/Montague Street, past Waters Avenue, Linebaugh Avenue and then runs due north to Gunn Highway, Ehrlich Road and ends at Peterson Road Park.
Alderman's Ford Park – Canoe Launch and Trails
9625 Canoe Launch Loop
Lithia, FL 33567
Lithia Springs Regional Park – Swimming Area
32 Lithia Springs Road
Valrico, FL 33547
Citizens can call the Hillsborough County InfoLine at 813-272-6900 to report problems or for more information.
11:22 a.m.
Florida Gov. Rick Scott to hold media briefing on Debby from the State EOC @ 12:30 p.m. Bay News 9 will carry it LIVE.
11:05 a.m.
UPDATE - Tropical Storm Debby 11 a.m. advisory
Storm is now located about 75 miles S of Apalachicola Florida with maximum sustained winds...45 mph. Movement now NE at 3 mph.
Tropical Storm Warnings are now in effect from Destin to Englewood, including Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough and Manatee Counties
10:49 a.m.
Gov. Rick Scott cancels events in Tampa today. He will stay in Tallahassee and get a briefing on the storm at the Florida Division of Emergency Management.
10:45 a.m.
From Weather on the Nines: Tornado Warning has expired for Polk. Some heavy rains continue in Eastern Polk and Manatee County. Much of the Bay area getting a break closer to the coast, but more storms expected today.
10:27 a.m.
BREAKING - TORNADO WARNING continues for SE and Eastern Polk County until 10:45 a.m. Storm is located near Frostproof, moving rapidly at 40 mph.
Watch Bay News 9 Weather on the Nines Team Coverage, LIVE now for complete updates.
Meteorologist Diane Kacmarik says this storm has a lot of rotation and could produce tornadoes.
10:08 a.m.
BREAKING - TORNADO WARNING for SE and Eastern Polk County until 10:45 a.m.. Watch Bay News 9 live now for complete updates.
Storm will affect Frostproof, Lake Wales, Lake Wales Municipal Airport, Indian Lake Estates, Poinciana.
10:05 a.m.
Hernando update:
Hernando Sheriff's Office - Flooding has been reported in the low lying areas of Masaryktown where members of the Sheriff's office are on scene assisting with evacuations. Areas of Roosevelt Ave, Hodza St. and Wilson Blvd. are all experiencing flooding in this area.
Road closures include Mariner Blvd. in the area of Claymore Rd. and Little St.
Several large sinkholes have opened up in this area and the roads will remain closed until repairs can be made.
The area of Spring Hill Dr. from California St. to Broad St.(US41) is closed due to high water covering the roadway.
Northclifee Blvd. in the area of Central Park Drive is also experiencing high water covering the roadway making it dangerous to pass.
10:00 a.m.
Flooding update from Real Time Traffic's Chuck Henson:
Every intersection in South Tampa south of Dale Mabry and Henderson.
Bay to Bay Blvd. (entire road)
Westshore Blvd. from Kennedy to Bay to Bay Blvd.
Hillsborough Ave. from Hanley Rd. to Sawyer
Fowler Ave. between Bruce B. Downs and Nebraska Ave.
Ridge Rd. in Port Richey east of U.S. 19/ Eastbound blocked
Westbound Selmon Expressway right lane washed out at 39th St. in the construction zone
The ramp from Dale Mabry to the Southbound Veterans Expressway with road surface issues
Clearwater: Road depression on Chestnut St. at Fort Harrison Ave.
Spring Hill: Road depression/hole on Mariner Blvd. north of Spring Hill Dr.
9:42 a.m.
Power outage update:
Progress Energy - 9,908
TECO - 3,987
Lakeland Electric, FPL - scattered outages
9:37 a.m.
Pinellas County opened the Citizen Information Center this morning due to the effects of Tropical Storm Debby. Citizens may call (727) 464-4333 to ask questions related to conditions in Pinellas County.
9:30 a.m.
Heavy rain continues in Manatee County and Polk County. Some gusty winds expected as well.
9:08 a.m.
The Sunshine Skyway bridge remains closed in both directions this hour due to gusty winds. Meteorologist Juli Marquez says a gust of 46 mph was reported near bridge earlier this morning. Use I-75 as an alternate.
5:25 a.m. Monday, June 25th
Tropical Storm Debby is now about 90 miles SSW of Apalachicola, FL. Winds now 50 mph. Still stationary. Computer models show Debby staying in the Gulf of Mexico for a couple of days. Some bring it slowly northeast and others are slowly northwest. The bottom line is that we will continue to have high rain chances, heavy rain, flooding, the threat of tornadoes, strong winds, etc.
New Tornado Watch for our entire area until 2 p.m.
Tropical Storm Watch continues for our entire coast.
- Below are severe weather updates as they happened Sunday
10:43 p.m.
PHOTO GALLERY: Damage, flooding from Tropical Storm Debby
9:10 p.m.
We have received reports that the roof of the Pass-a-Grille Marina has been ripped off and there are injuries.
8:37 p.m.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has had reports of wind damage from a storm event in the Winter Haven / Lake Wales area.
Wind damage and debris has been reported in the following areas: Lake Dexter, Eloise Loop, Cypress Gardens Rd. and Cypress Gardens Blvd.; Winterset and Cypress Gardens Road; Highway 60 and Acuff Road; Thompson Nursery Road and Renaissance.
Some power outage and downed power lines have been reported in this S.E. Winter Haven area. Polk County Fire Rescue is in the area. No injuries have been reported.
8:29 p.m.
Waterspout / possible tornado moving on shore in southern Pinellas County. If it reaches the ground, it would be near Tyrone Mall, as oof 8:30 p.m.
Many residents evacuated from Mariner's Cove mobile home park in Largo: http://twitpic.com/a07asf
8:00 p.m.
BREAKING: Rotation of possible #tornado over #Legoland theme park in Winter Haven. Take your phone and take cover now in this area.
7:39 p.m.
BREAKING: 3 possible tornadoes in southern Polk County. There is a 3rd possible one between Fort Meade and Frostproof now.
The triangle of Bartow, Alturas and Fort Meade need to be in a safe place. 3 possible tornadoes in your area. Do not wait.
7:36 p.m.
BREAKING: Two tornadoes possible now near Fort Meade. Take cover NOW.
7:31 p.m.
Tornado Warning issued for southern Polk County. Fort Meade is under the gun from possible #tornado in southern #Polk County. Take cover now.
6:54 p.m.
Reminder: If you do not have to go out in the Bay area tonight, do not go out. Life-theatening weather is moving through the Bay area right now.
The entire Bay area remains under a Tropical Storm AND Tornado Watch.
6:45 p.m.
@JonathanYbor:
Bayshore Blvd. completely submerged -- COMPLETELY --> http://pic.twitter.com/rUiOH2Gc
6:30 p.m.
@LvOrange
Pasco, FL - Someones roof is in our backyard!!! http://twitpic.com/a06ah3
Highlands Co. spokesperson LIVE on BN9: 1 dead, 1 child injured. Property damage from possibe tornadoes. 1 house completely destroyed.
5:53 p.m.
Meteorologist Brian McClure: Flooding on west side of Courtney Campbell Cswy. Eastbound lanes being closed near Mcmullen Booth rd. There is extreme flooding across the Bay area and it will not end anytime soon. Tropical Storm Debby could stick around for 2 - 3+ days
UPDATE: Possible #tornado near Fivay and Moon Lake Estates area. Take cover NOWRainfall totals: 6.41" St. Petersburg, 3.42" Ruskin, 2.41" Lakeland, 1.65" Bradenton.
5:45 p.m.
Car completely submerged at Belcher Rd. / 142nd St. in #Largo -- MORE on http://BN9.com: http://pic.twitter.com/rUiDP9yy
@GinaFit
Tampa Rd and Alt 19 in Palm Harbor: http://pic.twitter.com/gR1RlY1O
Viewer from NPR LIVE now on Bay News 9: "My roof is at the end of the street. Someone else's is in my backyard ... We're still shaking." Heard a loud wind. "Front porch is totally gone."
BREAKING: Possible tornado nearing Odessa and Trinity area is same cell that started in Seminole and moved through Clearwater.
5:31 p.m.
Just as Pinellas and Pasco County warnings ended, new Tornado WARNING issued now for northern Hillsborough, all of central #Pasco and extreme southern Hernando County.
5:20 p.m.
If you do not have to go out in the Bay area tonight, do not go out. Life-theatening weather is moving through the Bay area right now.
Possible tornado continues moving north near Oldsmar and Countrside area.
5:04 p.m.
If you are in central Pinellas Co. near Largo / Clearwater / Dunedin -- You have no time to wait. Take cover now. Remain vigilant.
"A really impressive #tornado signature over downtown #Largo" -- TAKE COVER NOW -- Possible tornado moving VERY quickly.
BREAKING NOW: Tornado WARNING for #Pinellas County -- It is very, very likely a #tornado could be on the ground near Seminole / Largo.
4:50 p.m.
Possible rotation in a storm near Tarpon Springs. -- We are tracking all these storms LIVE on Bay News 9
Hernando County is now under a Tornado WARNING, as well.
Possible tornadoes near USF AND downtown Tampa. Take cover now.
4:40 p.m.
Downtown Tampa, USF, Wesley Chapel, Land O' Lakes -- Take cover NOW -- Possible tornado near USF -- We're LIVE on Bay News 9
4:15 p.m.
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge has been shut down due to high winds.
We are receiving reports of drivers needing to be rescued in downtown Clearwater and reports of water reaching the bumbers of cars in Gulfport.
Drivers are also being stranded in Pasco County, as well, with major intersections being shut down.
4:01 p.m.
BREAKING: New Tornado Warning in effect for northern Pinellas County and southwestern Pasco County.
Possible circulation in Dunedin, Clearwater, Clearwater Beach, Palm Harbor. Take cover NOW in these areas.
3:56 p.m.
Rotation near Indian Rocks Beach has dissipated, but there are still very strong storms in that area.
Tampa Int'l Airport / Westchase / Odessa still seeing strong storms, but no longer threat of possible tornado.
3:45 p.m.
BREAKING: Possible rotation near Indian Rocks Beach.
3:32 p.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: "There is a nasty storm near Safety Harbor and Oldsmar in Pinellas County.: -- We're LIVE on Bay News 9 tracking these storms.
3:25 p.m.
Tornado Warning for northwestern and southwester Pasco Counties. It is very possible a tornado is in the area, moving north toward Odessa.
3:21 p.m.
BREAKING NOW: Tornado WARNING for Hillsborough Co., near Tampa Int'l Airport area. Take cover NOW. -- We are LIVE on Bay News 9
2:57 p.m.
THE LATEST FORECAST on Tropical Storm Debby -- Bay area under Tornado Watch; Tropical Storm Watch for Pasco and north: http://bit.ly/MOswy7
2:55 p.m.
Bayshore Blvd. shut down from S. Rome to W. Swann Ave. in Tampa due to normal flood-prone areas.
2:30 p.m.
Possible tornado near Myakka City has since dissipated.
All Tornado Warnings have expired. The entire Bay area will remain under a Tornado Watch through Sunday.
2:09 p.m.
A possible tornado has been spotted in radar near Myakka City. The cell was seen in radar for at least 15 minutes. Residents in the area should remain vigilant.
The city of Holmes Beach law enforcement officials are asking the public to not visit Anna Maria Island on Sunday. "Fresh water flooding is occuring on the roadway system and high tides around 4 p.m. will further flood the roads," Manatee County officials said in a statement.
1:48 p.m.
RECAP: Tornado WARNINGS now for Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough and Manatee Counties.
"It doesn't take much to get rotation in these tropical systems," Bay News 9 Meterologist Diane Kacmarik, "If a cell produces a tornado, they are usually very brief."
1:38 p.m.
BREAKING: Tornado WARNINGS issued for Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas Counties. We are LIVE wall-to-wall coverage NOW on Bay News 9.
1:34 p.m.
BREAKING: Possible tornado near Safety Harbor. All in northern Pinellas Co. take cover NOW and remain vigilant. - We're LIVE on Bay News 9
1:29 p.m.
BREAKING: Tornado WARNING for Pinellas County. Possible circulation near Safety Harbor -- The latest now on Bay News 9.
12:45 p.m.
The storm is 190 miles ESE of the mouth of the Mississippi with winds at 60 mph. The storm still moves northeast at 6 mph.
The official track remains uncertain but, for now, gives the storm a more easterly movement.
Water spouts have been reported.
Tides will run 1.5 to 3 feet above normal.
There is also a high surf advisory with extremely high rainfall totals possible until Tuesday.
12:23 p.m.
The following are current warning, watches and advisories:
Tornado Watch until 8 p.m. for the entire Bay area
Tropical Storm Watch from Anclote Key in Pasco County northward
Coastal Flood Warning for Hernando and Citrus Counties.
Coastal Flood Advisory for Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties.
River Flood Warnings:
- Manatee River near Myakka Head
- Little Manatee River at Wimauma
- Anclote River at Elfers
- Myakka River at Myakka State Park
Watch Bay News 9 for the latest on the Tropical Storm Debby and severe weather in the Bay area:
12:14 p.m.
JUST IN: FHP issues Weather Warning for drivers to use caution on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge due to high winds.
12:00 p.m.
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties has been called off.
11:54 a.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: Tornado Watch issued for all Central and South Florida counties until 8 p.m.
11:52 a.m.
Tropical Storm Watch issued from Anclote Key northward. This includes Citrus, Hernando and Pasco Counties in the Bay area.
11:50 a.m.
A Tornado Watch has been issued for the entire Bay area.
11:39 a.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: Winds of 56 mph were reported in downtown St. Pete.
11:33 a.m.
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is in effect for Pinellas County and NW areas of Hillsborough County until noon. Potential for winds up to 60 mph.
11:00 a.m.
A Tropical Storm Watch was issued for the Coast of Citrus, Hernando and Pasco Counties. More and more pictures came in showing the damage the winds and rains have caused.
7:00 a.m.
The advisory still had no real change to it. The storm has 50 mph of wind. Seas are at 12 to 15 feet. The forecast track still remains highly uncertain. There is potential today for waterspouts or weak tornadoes. Later today there is the possibility of coastal flooding during the evening's high tide.
Sunday, June 24
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11:00 p.m.
The 11 p.m. advisory has no changes to watches or warnings on Tropical Storm Debby.
"The storm is not expected to move much over the next 24 hours or more. The movement of the storm will depend on how large it grows," Bay News 9 Meterologist Diane Kacmarik said Saturday night.
"If it moves to the east -- toward Florida -- it will see a lot of shear and bring down its intensity. If it moves to the west, it will have more time to develop."
10:43 p.m.
The 11 p.m. updated Tropical Storm Debby outlook should be coming in soon. The current forecast cone for Debby has the tropical storm drifting north at 6 mph, drifting back toward the west and the coasts of Louisiana and Texas. Not much change expected.
Winds still maximum sustained at 50 mph and the system is stationary over the central Gulf of Mexico, sending heavy rain onto the Florida coast.
10:25 p.m.
Small cell moving toward Riverview and Brandon. Expect brief heavy rain & gusty winds. The cell is moving NNW at 20 mph.
10:20 p.m.
We've got you covered:
- T.S. Debby latest: http://bit.ly/NmchFQ
- Debby LIVE BLOG: http://bit.ly/Lqbhn7
- Local forecast: http://bit.ly/MMBWKf
10:12 p.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: Klystron 9 shows a hook on the cell moving through S Hills Co near Sun Cty Ctr. Watching it closely. http://pic.twitter.com/KN9GMPpk
9:53 p.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: Radar shows 3 possible waterspouts offshore of Charlotte Co. Moving N at 20. Doppler velocities: http://pic.twitter.com/iSZaD5lh
9:51 p.m.
Meteorologist Diane Kacmarik: Forecast for the storm hasn't changed much. Debby will move very little through Sunday. It should drift west toward Texas starting Monday. Expect heavy rain especially Sunday and Monday, possibly into Tuesday.
9:40 p.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: 2 waterspouts in Doppler wind velocities offshore of Punta Gorda, moving toward Sarasota Co. http://pic.twitter.com/De6vyIxW
9:00 p.m.
Wave heights of 14.1 and 9.8 feet registered off the coast of Florida, well out into the Gulf of Mexico.
8:55 p.m.
Radar from Ft. Myers shows a "hook" on a cell offshore, with the strong signature of a waterspout, according to Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay. The cell is moving north-northeast. -- via @bn9weather: http://pic.twitter.com/vt4ba9Z6
8:15 p.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: A few waterspouts and/or weak tornadoes are possible overnight in the Bay area as a band rotates in from the Gulf of Mexico toward the Bay area.
As Tropical Storm Debby continues to send rainy weather our way, send your weather photos to: PhoneCam9@baynews9.com
8:14 p.m.
Meteorologist Diane Kacmarik: Debby will move very little through Sunday. It should drift west toward Texas starting Monday. Our forecast does not change. Expect heavy rain especially Sunday and Monday, possibly into Tuesday. Tides will be a bit higher than normal, maybe 1 to 2 feet. High tides will be around daybreak Sunday and again at 5 pm to 7 pm.
8:10 p.m.
Despite being now near stationary, the current forecast track for Debby remains towards Texas and Louisiana coasts.
7:58 p.m.
At 8 p.m. advisory, Tropical Storm Debby has slowed from 6 mph to nearly stationary over the central Gulf of Mexico.
Meteorologist Diane Kacmarik: It's moving so slowly, it will probably affect us through Monday and possibly even Tuesday.
7:54 p.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: NWS Survey confirms a tornado in Naples at 3:35 pm, path 1.7 miles. Damage mostly minor to trees w/ minor structural damage.
7:09 p.m.
No significant updates. Next advisory at 8 p.m. should provide a better idea of where Debby might go.
6:43 p.m.
The next intermediate data advisory from Tropical Storm Debby is expected around 8 p.m.
Winds are currently around 50 mph.
The current forecast cone for Debby has the tropical storm drifting north at 6 mph, drifting back toward the west and the coasts of Louisiana and Texas.
6:33 p.m.
Tree / sign damage pictures from friend at #Naples' North Collier Hospital around time of possible #tornado: http://pic.twitter.com/IlghxEML
Meteorologist Josh Linker: With Tropical Storm Debby in the Gulf of Mexico, this is the earliest for four named storms since records began in 1851.
6:17 p.m.
Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay: At 5:50 p.m., a possible tornado hit near North Collier Hospital in Naples. 1 was person injured. There was minor damage in the area.
5:52 p.m.
The storm's preliminary track is expected to move toward Louisiana and Texas, but the track is the best guess for the system and is not set in stone.
Debby has maximum sustained winds of 50 mph.
5:37 p.m.
#TropicalStormDebby has formed in the gulf. All of FL needs to be ready should she head our way! Be #RedCross Ready - Checklist: http://ow.ly/bMwSc
5:28 p.m.
A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for parts of the Louisiana coast, from the mouth of the Pearl River to Morgan City, La. The warning does not yet include New Orleans or Lake Pontchartrain.
5:23 p.m.
A High Surf Advisory is in effect until 8 p.m. Sunday for Hillsborough, Pinellas and Manatee Counties. A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect for Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties.
The Flood Advisory for coastal Pinellas Co. is in effect until Sunday at 8 p.m.
A tornado has been reported in Naples, with some roof damage at Penny Lane and Palm Drive.
5:15 p.m.
Josh Linker: With TS Debby in the Gulf, our wet forecast remains unchanged. Uncertainty amongst the various models for Debby's track.
5:09 p.m.
The current forecast cone for Debby has the tropical storm drifting north at 6 mph, drifting back toward the west and the coasts of Louisiana and Texas.
5:00 p.m.
Debby has maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. The storm's preliminary track is expected to move toward Louisiana and Texas.
4:53 p.m.
The tropical system building in the Gulf of Mexico for several days has finally reached tropical storm strength and the first advisory for Tropical Storm Debby has been issued.
As Tropical Storm Debby sends rainy weather our way, send your weather photos to: PhoneCam9@baynews9.com