UPDATE: The bridge is now back open.
TAMPA BAY, Fla. -- A key bridge across the mouth of Tampa Bay has been closed due to high winds.
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge connects St. Petersburg and Manatee County and is tied as the tallest bridge in the state, with 175 feet of clearance underneath. It is customarily closed when sustained winds in the area reach 40 miles per hour.
Florida Highway Patrol made the decision to close the bridge around 1 p.m. Wednesday.
Drivers should plan for alternative routes until further notice.
