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Strong winds prompt closure of Sunshine Skyway bridge

 
Storms pass by the Sunshine Skyway bridge in this file photo from July 2015. [SCOTTY SCHENCK | Times]
Storms pass by the Sunshine Skyway bridge in this file photo from July 2015. [SCOTTY SCHENCK | Times]
Published Jan. 22, 2017

Strong winds prompted authorities to close the Sunshine Skyway bridge to all traffic Sunday afternoon.

The Florida Highway Patrol said wind speeds were averaging 43 to 52 mph. The conditions are part of a system expected to bring severe thunderstorms to the Tampa Bay area Sunday evening, which could include hail and tornadoes.

A tornado watch in effect until 10 p.m. was issued by the National Weather Service for several counties across the state, including Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough and Hernando.

FHP encouraged drivers to check the live crash and road reports on the agency's website for updates.