By TB Reporter

A low pressure area and cold front is headed toward the coast.

Rain, wind and thunderstorms are expected to arrive in Pinellas County between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. today (Jan. 22), the National Weather Service reports. The NWS says Pinellas and counties to the north can expect severe storms that include strong numerous showers, thunderstorms, winds of up to 58 mph, and greater in some areas, and a potential of tornadoes and hail. Tornado watches are in effect for some areas. Boaters are advised to stay in port; the Coast Guard has made several rescues today. High winds have closed the Sunshine Skyway.

County emergency management crews are monitoring the front and communicating other agencies to make sure the messages are distributed to all communities.

Officials are urging all citizens to:

• Locate your emergency weather radio and ensure that it is on. If you don’t have one, confirm that you receive emergency notifications on your mobile device or through other means. Stay tuned to the weather news on local stations.
• Identify the safest place in the building you are located. Generally, a room that is in the middle of the building, with no windows, perhaps a closet or bathroom, is the safest place to take cover when a tornado moves through your area.
• Make sure you heed a tornado warning and act quickly. If a tornado warning is issued, there will be approximately 11 minutes for everyone in the building to get to a safe place.
• In anticipation of high winds, residents should secure objects outdoors, such as lawn furniture.
• Limit road travel. Road conditions and visibility may be poor due to severe weather. Do not attempt to drive down flooded roadways.
• Avoid coming into contact with or walking through flood water.
• Monitor weather radios frequently as weather conditions may change frequently.
• Monitor the county’s Facebook and Twitter pages for updates all day long.
• These are strictly dedicated to weather and emergency management updates today. Visit: facebook.com and twitter.com. Sign up for free emergency alerts through Alert Pinellas, by visiting pinellascounty.org. Those without computer access can call (866) 484-3264.

Local News | Severe Weather | Pinellas County

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