Tampa residents can expect scattered showers and thunderstorms starting this afternoon, with the National Weather Service (NWS) predicting a 60% chance of precipitation and new rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible. The day's high is approaching 88 degrees, accompanied by high humidity levels that could push heat index values as high as 98, making for a steamy start to the weekend. According to the NWS forecast, there's a calm wind shifting to the south at 5 to 7 mph in the morning.
For those planning evening activities, showers and thunderstorms are likely, especially before 8 pm, with scattered chances between 8 pm and 11 pm. Overnight, temperatures are expected to drop to a warm low around 77 degrees. Although winds will be calm from the south-southwest at around 5 mph, becoming calm in the evening, residents should carry an umbrella to prepare for rainfall, which is forecasted to be less than a tenth of an inch, though higher amounts are possible during thunderstorms.
Looking ahead to tomorrow's forecast, Tampa is expected to experience more of the same, with a 50% chance of scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms. The day will be mostly cloudy, with highs reaching near 92 degrees and heat index values forecasted to soar even higher to 102. Winds will be from the east at 3 to 7 mph. According to the NWS reports, new rainfall amounts will generally be less than a tenth of an inch, except in cases of thunderstorms where higher amounts are possible.
The NWS forecast for Monday and beyond indicates little relief from the pattern of afternoon thunderstorms and high temperatures. Monday itself is expected to reach highs near 94 degrees, with scattered showers and thunderstorms likely after 2 pm and continuing into the evening. Winds will increase, coming from the east at 8 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph. As Juneteenth approaches, those participating in outdoor celebrations may encounter a 50% chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms after 8 am, although skies should generally be mostly sunny with high temperatures lingering around 93 degrees.
Residents should prepare for increased rain toward the latter half of the week, as NWS Tampa predicts a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday and Friday, with highs near 94 and 92 degrees, respectively. Evenings should bring some relief with lows around 76 degrees, though showers and thunderstorms are likely, especially on Thursday night. While persistent rain may affect outdoor plans, staying informed of the latest weather updates can assist in scheduling around the summer storms.
