PINELLAS COUNTY - A wind chill advisory is in effect from midnight tonight to 9 a.m. Wednesday. A fire weather watch also will be in effect Wednesday morning through afternoon.
The National Weather Service in Ruskin said a reinforcing cold Canadian high pressure air mass will filter into the area today bringing breezy northerly winds.
Temperatures are expected to fall rapidly overnight and combine with winds of around 5 to 10 mph for wind chill readings mid to upper 20s by morning.
A wind chill advisory is issued when wind chill index values will drop to 35 or lower for three or more hours.
The NWS also issued a fire weather watch due to a very dry air mass that will continue the next few days with relative humidity falling below 35 percent for several hours on Wednesday and maybe Thursday.
Residents are advised to cover or move indoors any cold sensitive plants and to bring pets in this evening.
People venturing out tonight should dress warmly. The NWS said wearing several layers of clothing will insulate better than a single coat or jacket.
Fishermen and small craft operators may want to postpone trips tonight and in the morning as northerly winds will rapidly increase and become gusty today and tonight while elevated seas build. The NWS advises to stay in port until conditions improve.
Cold temperatures are expected to remain in the area through Thursday.
