Thousands of revelers and boaters are gearing up for Tampa’s annual Gasparilla celebrations this Saturday, bracing for unusually cold weather. Morning temperatures are expected to plunge into the low 30s, making it one of the coldest Gasparilla mornings in years. While the afternoon may warm to the low 60s, the Tampa Police Marine Unit is urging participants to take precautions. Corporal Jay Reese of the Marine Unit emphasized safety, advising boaters to layer up and avoid entering the water. “We certainly don’t want anybody getting hit by a boat or a propeller,” Reese said. With 2,000 boats anticipated, idle speeds are mandatory, and law enforcement will enforce laws on boating under the influence into the evening. Boater Garrett Garcia, preparing for the parade, echoed Reese’s advice. MORE: https://www.wtsp.com/article/entertainment/events/gasparilla/gasparilla-safety-tpd-units-law-enforcement-cold-temperatures/67-7114aec2-460a-414b-b818-1134ed1f2de4