Heavy Storms Should Avoid West Pasco

An “unexpected turn” gets the thanks for West Pasco County avoiding the bulk of the severe weather that was predictedearlier in the week, forecasters at the National Weather Service say.

Even still, the area is in for a good soaking, wind and possibly some lightning over the next 24 to 48 hours, said Tyler Fleming, a meteorologist at the weather service’s Ruskin office.

“Most of the severe weather is further south,” Fleming said, adding that up to an inch of rain is still likely over the next 24 to 48 hours. There could also be “gusty winds up to 25 mph.”

That forecast is a lot better than what forecasters thought we were in for on Monday. A large low pressure system that developed off the Yucatan Peninsula was being watched yesterday for possible tropical development. That system, however, has become disorganized and is now moving more easterly than earlier predicted.

While the next day or two could bring some unpleasant weather, Fleming did say there is a payoff coming.

“(It will be) cooler and drier going into the weekend.”

For a look at the 7-day forecast for West Pasco, visit the National Weather Service online.