BAY AREA — On top of all the rain that started Wednesday, heavy rain and thunderstorms will soak the entire Bay area today. 

There's a good chance some locations will see some flooding. Some areas in the northern part of the Bay area have opened locations for sand bags.

And many events across the area will be canceled due to heavy rain, winds and the potential of severe weather. 

Canceled events: 

Hernando County

Hernando County Schools has canceled all outdoor afterschool activities. Indoor events and activities will continue as planned. 

Hillsborough County

Due to weather, Fan Fest activities before this evening’s Gasparilla Bowl have been canceled. Gates to Raymond James Stadium open at 6:30pm and the game will kickoff at 8pm. 

Metropolitian Ministries has closed it's holiday tent in downtown Tampa and on its Pasco campus in Holiday. 

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will be closed Thursday, December 20, due to severe weather. The park is expected to reopen Friday, December 21. 

Manatee Schools 

WEATHER ALERT | In an abundance of caution, due to the possibility of severe weather, the school district has canceled ALL after-school activities for Thursday, December 20th *EXCEPT extended day and aftercare programs. Please stay tuned to local weather forecasts.

Pinellas County

Due to the weather conditions, Holiday Lights at the Botanical Gardens will be closed tonight and tomorrow. The current plan is to open on Friday 12/21 if weather permits.

Polk County

Unfortunately due to tomorrow's severe weather forecast the Bartow Christmas Parade for 2018 is canceled.

Snow Central 2018: Due to the continued rain and projected wind and storm forecast, we regret to have to cancel the December 21 City of Winter Haven Snow Central event. 

Organizers, sponsors and volunteers are incredibly disappointed to have to reach this decision.  Making the snow and setting up activity workshops for this outdoor event is nearly impossible in the wind and rain. Appreciation is extended to the Winter Haven citizens for their understanding and support.  Please call the City of Winter Haven Parks, Recreation and Culture Department at 291-5656 for further information.

Continue to check back as this is information is continually updated.