The Tampa area is gearing up for a sunny day ahead with a cool northerly breeze. Temperatures are expected to reach a comfortable high near 63 degrees, though early morning wind chill values may dip as low as 38. North northeast winds are anticipated to blow at around 9 to 11 mph, with occasional gusts that could reach as high as 18 mph, as per the latest forecast by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Tampa, FL.

As the sun sets, the sky is predicted to remain mostly clear with the temperature descending to a low around 50. The gentle north northeast wind will persist through the evening at 6 to 8 mph. The week ahead promises a continuation of sunny skies, with temperatures gradually climbing. Conditions are forecasted to be mostly sunny, with a high near 74 on Friday and increasing to near 80 by Monday. Nighttime lows are expected to hover in the low 60s.

However, beachgoers should heed caution as the NWS has issued a rip current statement for the area. A high rip current risk remains in effect through this evening for several counties along the coast, including Pinellas, Coastal Hillsborough, and Coastal Manatee, among others. According to the statement, "Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water."

Local authorities are advising individuals to swim near lifeguards and to not fight against the current if caught in a rip. Those unable to swim out of a rip current should signal for assistance. The rip current risk is expected to extend until 7 PM EST, impacting those visiting coastal areas such as Pinellas, Coastal Hillsborough, Coastal Manatee, Coastal Sarasota, Coastal Charlotte and Coastal Lee. As always, the public is encouraged to stay informed and practice caution while enjoying the coast under these conditions.