Strong storms rattled Tampa Bay on Friday evening

Tampa Bay residents can expect to see stormy skies throughout Friday night, according to local forecasters.

There’s a 70% chance of rain in Tampa throughout the evening, meaning most of the area will see rain. The chance of rain in Tampa decreases to 20% later Friday night. In St. Petersburg, residents can expect a 50% chance of rain. The chance of rain decreases to 20% later in the evening. About half of the Clearwater area will also be hit by thunderstorms Friday night.

The National Weather Service has also warned of severe storm conditions and possibly dangerous weather along the region’s coastline. The warning is in effect until 8:15 p.m. Friday.

Local forecasters warned of lightning, heavy rain and strong winds throughout the evening. While the weather is supposed to clear up Saturday morning in Tampa and St. Petersburg, both areas are expected to see thunderstorms later in the day, according to the National Weather Service. Scattered thunderstorms are predicted through the day in Clearwater, too.

Parts of Pinellas County, including St. Petersburg, Lealman and Pinellas Park, were under a severe thunderstorm warning until 7:30 p.m. Friday. Tampa, Temple Terrace, Wesley Chapel and Land O’ Lakes all saw warnings of strong winds and possible hail until 7:15 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.