Alberto Moving North, Scattered Storms & Gusty Winds for the Bay Area

Alberto has strengthened to 50 mph winds, but is still a subtropical system. It will continue to move north and then northwest heading towards the northern Gulf coast. Alberto will likely strengthen to 60 mph winds before making landfall Monday morning.

Tropical Storm Warnings remain in place along the Gulf coast. Along the coast a few wind gusts to 40 mph are possible, while the rest of the area will be breezy with winds of 20-35 mph.

After a round of steady rain this morning, we will see periods of dry time in the afternoon as drier air briefly moves into the upper levels from the southwest. Thunderstorms are still possible, fueled by an unstable atmosphere and daytime heating. Tampa Bay is under a slight risk of severe weather today, a few tornadoes are possible along with tropical downpours.

Boating conditions remain dangerous through Memorial day. Boaters are encouraged to wait until Tuesday to head out on the water when conditions improve. There is also a high risk of dangerous rip currents and extremely rough bay waters.

A storm surge watch remains in place for Coastal Citrus county. High tide around midday today will run 1-2 feet above normal.

 

Alberto Heading North; Tropical Storm Warnings In Effect

Alberto currently sits in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico and is on its way north. It is still an unorganized system, hampered by a decent amount of wind shear as well as some dry air on its west side. The result continues to be a lopsided storm with all the rain and wind concentrated east of the center. Environmental conditions should gradually improve and the official forecast calls for slow strengthening over the next 36 hours as Alberto heads towards the east-central Gulf Coast.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for… Bonita beach to the Anclote River… The Aucilla River to MS/AL border.

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for… the MS/AL border to the mouth of the Pearl River

A Storm Surge Watch in effect for… Crystal River to the mouth of the Pearl River

Around Tampa Bay on Sunday, expect rounds of heavy rain, higher than normal tides, a high rip current risk, and a low-end tornado threat.