Hurricane Isaias Tampa Bay: 3-6 Inches Rain Expected

Hurricane Isaias will bring 3 to 6 inches of rain to the Tampa Bay area Friday through Sunday, with some spots receiving up to 10 inches, the National Hurricane Center said Thursday.

As of 7 a.m. Thursday, the storm had maximum sustained winds of 80 mph and was moving east-northeast at 9 mph. Forecasters expect it to pass north of the Yucatan Peninsula on Thursday, then swing northeast Friday. Landfall is projected between southeastern Louisiana and the western Florida Panhandle, potentially as a Category 2 hurricane.

The heavy rain raises risks of flash flooding and urban flooding near the Anclote River and Intracoastal Waterway. While the National Weather Service issued no surge warnings for Pinellas County, it did issue a Coastal Flood Advisory. High tides along Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach could run 1 to 3 inches above normal, causing localized flooding in low-lying areas.

Emergency officials urge residents to review hurricane preparedness plans and stock supply kits. The National Hurricane Center will issue updated watches and warnings as the storm approaches.