(These warnings have been lifted.)
The National Weather Service in Ruskin has issued a flood warning for urban areas and small streams for southwestern Pasco County, northwestern Hillsborough County, and northeastern Pinellas County.
The warning is in effect until 8:45 p.m. Friday, officials said.
Flooding already has been reported along Hesperides and Lambright streets in Tampa, according to a report. Vehicles are said to be stuck in the water, which in some areas reporting waist-deep.
A flood warning means that flooding is imminent, or has been reported. Stream rises will be slow, and flash flooding is not expected, officials said.
Drivers should not take vehicles into areas of high water, even if the water does not appear to be moving. Vehicles can stall, and drivers could end up trapped in flooded areas.
Most flood deaths occur in cars, especially since flood waters are usually deeper than they appear. One foot of flowing water is powerful enough to sweep a vehicle off the road.
Children and small pets should be kept away from storm drains. As flood waters swell around these areas, strong current can develop and pull children and pets into the drain, officials said.
