Strong Thunderstorm Warning: Seek Shelter, Expect 50 MPH Winds

Residents in Coastal Hillsborough and Inland Hillsborough counties are advised to seek shelter indoors immediately due to a strong thunderstorm identified by Doppler radar. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Tampa Bay Ruskin, FL, issued a Special Weather Statement at 5:37 PM EDT, effective until 6:15 PM EDT today, September 20, 2026.

The storm, currently located over Lake Magdalene, or near Lutz, is moving south at 5 mph. Hazards include wind gusts up to 50 mph, which could knock down tree limbs and dislodge unsecured objects. Torrential rainfall is also occurring, posing a risk of localized flooding. Do not drive through flooded roadways. Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning is expected; remember that lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the storm.

Affected areas include Tampa, Temple Terrace, Lutz, Egypt Lake-Leto, Citrus Park, Greater Carrollwood, Lake Magdalene, Keystone, University, Greater Northdale, East Lake-Orient Park, West Park, Oldsmar, Busch Gardens, Westchase, Florida State Fairgrounds, Carrollwood, New Tampa, Lake Fern, and Town N Country.

For your safety, if outdoors, move inside a building or vehicle. Avoid flooded streets and stay away from windows during lightning activity.