The National Weather Service reports that the Tampa Bay area will see a mix of sun and clouds today with a slight chance of showers. Temperatures are forecast to reach a high near 74 degrees. There is a slight chance of sprinkles before 11 a.m., a slight chance of showers between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and another slight chance of sprinkles after 2 p.m. Winds from the north are expected to shift west in the afternoon, with gusts up to 22 mph.
Tonight, skies are expected to become partly cloudy with a low around 55 degrees. A high rip current risk will be in effect from late tonight through Friday evening for Pinellas, Coastal Hillsborough, Coastal Manatee, Coastal Sarasota, Coastal Charlotte, and Coastal Lee Counties. The NWS advises beachgoers to use caution.
The extended forecast shows sunny conditions with a high near 73 degrees on Friday, continuing through the weekend with little temperature variation. Friday night is expected to be clear with a low around 53 degrees. Sunny conditions are forecast to continue into next week, with daytime highs gradually increasing to the low 80s.
The NWS has issued safety information in connection with the elevated risk of rip currents along affected coastal areas. Guidance includes swimming near lifeguards, floating if caught in a rip current, avoiding swimming against the current, and moving parallel to the shoreline when possible. Residents and visitors are encouraged to follow official safety instructions and stay informed about weather conditions when in coastal regions.
