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Rainy weekend might wash out Memorial Day plans in Tampa Bay

Businesses could suffer too
Posted at 5:07 PM, May 24, 2018
and last updated 2018-05-24 17:29:41-04

SAFETY HARBOR, Fla. — Forecasts for the Memorial weekend call for heavy rain.

That's why Gary Paraschak and his daughter Nicolette were in Safety Harbor Thursday.

“We come out and kayak for exercise. Do some fishing, some leisurely, doing nothing for once,” said Gary.

They better enjoy the sunshine and clear skies while it lasts.

“That’s why we are trying to enjoy the moment today. Get out here on the water while we can,” said Gary.

The storm also has a very good chance ofturning into a tropical system in the Gulf.

That means Charter fishing captain Jared Simonetti could lose thousands of dollars this weekend.

He’s already had cancellations.

“Even a lot of people that think about going, they see the weather in the forecast and they are canceling, even if there is going to be a break in the weather.

On a typical weekend, Ken Bambery has all of his kayaks and paddle boards rented out.

He is also facing a big loss.

“When the weather goes bad, I don’t put people out. If it’s windy, what you really have to look out for is the lightning.”

Meanwhile, there are three big music events that could be impacted.

  • The Sunset Music Festival at Ray Jay.
  • The Margarita Festival at Curits Hixon Park.
  • And the 97X Barbecue at Vinoy Park.

Be sure to watch the updated forecast if you are heading to one of those.

As for small business owners, they are used to summer rain affecting their bottom line.

“Just try and catch up the rest of the year. It’s just part of it,” said Simonetti.