Severe Weather Expected This Weekend in Sarasota, Florida

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – An area of low pressure is expected to form over the northern Gulf Coast this weekend, increasing the chances for showers and thunderstorms starting on Sunday afternoon.

Due to the anticipated heavy rainfall, Monday has been declared a first alert weather day. Rainfall totals could reach between 2 to 4 inches, raising concerns for localized flooding in affected regions.

Before the expected downpours on Monday, residents can anticipate partly cloudy skies on Friday with a few isolated showers and thunderstorms, particularly inland. Highs will be in the mid to upper 80s, with heat indices climbing into the mid 90s.

Conditions will remain similar on Saturday, with some late-day showers and thunderstorms developing along the sea breeze before shifting inland. By Sunday, mostly cloudy skies will prevail, bringing a good chance for showers and thunderstorms later in the day and overnight.

The heavy rain is forecasted to continue intermittently throughout the day on Monday and into Tuesday morning. However, it appears there will be no severe storms during this period, although localized flooding remains a possibility.

As the storm system moves out, drier air is expected to sweep in after Tuesday morning, allowing for clearer skies. Boaters should be aware of winds out of the south at 5 to 10 knots, with calm seas at 1 foot or less and light chop on the waters.