Inside: Safety measures, FAQ section, Tampa local weather contacts
Living in the Tampa Bay area means enjoying sunny days and cool dips in the pool almost year-round. However, our beautiful weather also comes with its challenges. Thunderstorms and lightning are frequent in the corridor between Tampa and Orlando, known as the lightning capital of the US. With water’s natural conductivity, swimming during a storm can quickly turn from refreshing to risky. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
The Hidden Dangers of Stormy Waters
When a storm rolls in, the pool transforms from a haven to a hazard. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. This makes any body of water—whether a saltwater beach, a pool, or even an indoor pool—potentially dangerous. In fact, saltwater conducts electricity even better than freshwater, meaning that risks are heightened if you’re swimming in the ocean during a storm.
Immediate Safety Measures
When you hear thunder or see a flash of lightning, act fast. Follow these essential steps:
| Exit the Water Immediately | At the first sign of a storm, leave the pool or any open water. |
| Seek Appropriate Shelter | Head indoors or into a grounded vehicle. Avoid open structures like gazebos or tents, and even indoor pools. They can pose risks because water can conduct stray electrical currents. |
| Seek Appropriate Shelter | If you’re caught outside with no shelter in sight, move to lower ground and avoid being the tallest object in the area. |
Post-Storm Precautions and Pool Care
After the storm has passed, safety isn’t over. It’s crucial to ensure that the area is safe for swimming again:
| Wait It Out: | Do not rush back into the pool. Give at least 30 minutes after the last sign of thunder or lightning before you resume swimming. Use weather radar apps to ensure the storm has truly moved on. |
| Inspect and Maintain: | Storms can sometimes leave behind debris or even minor damage to pool equipment. Post-storm maintenance is essential for a safe swimming environment. For those in the Tampa Bay area, trusted experts like JJB Pools & Spas are ready to help with pool cleaning, repairs, and routine maintenance. |
A Local Perspective: Tampa Bay’s Unique Challenges
The frequency of thunderstorms in our region isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a serious safety concern. With data indicating high numbers of cloud-to-ground strikes, particularly in the Tampa-Orlando corridor, residents must be extra vigilant. Whether it’s an unexpected storm during an afternoon swim or an evening dip interrupted by thunder, every pool owner should be prepared. Always keep an eye on the local weather forecasts and have a family plan ready for when storms strike.
Local Weather Contacts
Tampa Bay is one of the most lightning-prone regions in the U.S., and storms can develop quickly. National apps alone may miss neighborhood-level timing, so combining national and local sources gives homeowners the best protection.
Local Tampa Bay TV Meteorologists
These stations provide hyper-local forecasts and frequent storm tracking:
- WFLA News Channel 8
- WTSP 10 Tampa Bay
- WTVT FOX 13
- ABC Action News (WFTS)
National Weather Service (NWS) – Tampa Bay / Ruskin Office
- The most authoritative source for severe weather alerts, lightning warnings, and hurricane updates
- Issues official watches, warnings, and advisories
- Ideal for safety decisions
Lightning & Swimming Pool Safety FAQ – Tampa Bay
Is it safe to swim in a pool during a lightning storm in Tampa Bay?
No. Swimming during a lightning storm is never safe, even if lightning appears far away. In the Tampa Bay area—one of the most lightning-prone regions in the U.S.—lightning can strike miles from the center of a storm and travel through water, plumbing, and pool equipment.
How far away should lightning be before getting out of the pool?
If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Pool safety experts recommend getting out of the water immediately and waiting at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before swimming again. This rule is especially important during Florida’s frequent afternoon and evening storms.
Can lightning strike a swimming pool directly?
Yes. Lightning can strike swimming pools directly or nearby surfaces such as pool decks, screened enclosures, metal handrails, or pool equipment. Electricity can travel through water and conductive materials, creating serious risk for swimmers.
Is a screened-in pool safe during a lightning storm?
No. Screen enclosures do not provide lightning protection. Metal framing, electrical components, and nearby structures can conduct electricity. Even screened pools in Tampa Bay neighborhoods should be considered unsafe during storms.
Can lightning travel through pool plumbing or pool equipment?
Yes. Lightning can travel through pool plumbing, pumps, heaters, automation systems, and electrical lines. This is why swimmers should exit the pool and avoid touching pool equipment, metal ladders, or handrails during storms.
Should pool pumps and pool equipment be turned off during lightning storms?
Yes. Turning off pool equipment during severe storms can help reduce the risk of electrical damage. For added protection, homeowners in storm-prone areas like Tampa Bay may consider surge protectors or automation systems with storm safety features.
Is it safe to swim right after a storm passes?
Not immediately. Even after rain stops, lightning may still be present. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before returning to the pool. This is one of the most important lightning safety rules for Florida pool owners.
Can lightning damage my swimming pool or pool equipment?
Yes. Lightning strikes and power surges can damage:
- Pool pumps and motors
- Automation systems
- Pool heaters
- LED pool lights
- Saltwater systems
Regular inspections and professional maintenance help Tampa Bay homeowners protect their pool investment.
Are saltwater pools safer than chlorine pools during lightning?
No. Both saltwater and chlorine pools conduct electricity. The type of pool sanitation system does not make swimming during a lightning storm safe.
What should Tampa Bay pool owners do when a storm is approaching?
When storms are in the forecast:
- Clear swimmers from the pool early
- Secure pool furniture and loose items
- Turn off pool equipment if recommended by your pool professional
- Avoid standing water, metal surfaces, and electrical components
Planning ahead is key during Florida’s storm and hurricane seasons.
How common is lightning in the Tampa Bay area?
Tampa Bay consistently ranks among the top lightning hotspots in the United States, especially during summer months. This makes lightning pool safety an essential part of responsible pool ownership in Florida.
Can a pool company help protect my pool from storm-related damage?
Yes. A professional Tampa Bay pool company can:
- Inspect pool electrical systems
- Install surge protection
- Recommend storm-safe automation features
- Repair or replace storm-damaged equipment
Preventive care helps reduce costly repairs after severe weather.
Trust Your Local Experts: JJB Pools & Spas
Since 2001, JJB Pools & Spas has been a trusted name in Tampa Bay pool care, offering expert advice on pool remodeling and specializing in post-storm pool repairs to ensure your pool remains operating even after severe weather. Swimming is one of Tampa Bay’s greatest pleasures, but the risks posed by thunderstorms and lightning are significant—when thunder roars, it’s essential to get out of the water and seek shelter immediately. Call or text (727) 412-4373 for dependable pool repair services after a storm.
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JJB Pools & Spas provides expert pool maintenance, repair, resurfacing, and renovation across Tampa Bay — serving Largo, Palm Harbor, Dunedin, Belleair, South Tampa, Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, St. Pete Beach, Davis Islands & Clearwater Beach. We use only the best pool and spa industry brands, including Wet Edge Technologies, Primera Stone, Prism Matrix, Luna Quartz, Signature Matrix, and Aquabella Tile. JJB Pools is also a platinum warranty station for all Hayward brand equipment, and an expert in Variable Speed Pumps and energy-efficient pool heating. Call for a free estimate! (727) 412-4373