Sunday, February 22, 2026, is serving Tampa a bit of weather whiplash. The day starts out warm and soupy, with fog and mist draped over the city and temperatures near 70°F, making for patchy visibility on the morning commute. Rain showers are likely between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., with a continued chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms into late morning. Temperatures should briefly climb to around 74°F before a sharp drop into the low 60s this afternoon as a strong cold front barrels through, kicking up breezy, gusty winds and setting up a much cooler start to the week.
Morning Fog, Quick Showers
Areas of fog are expected to lift before 7 a.m., clearing the way for rain showers that are likely between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., followed by scattered showers and a few thunderstorms into late morning. The National Weather Service in Ruskin pegs the chance of precipitation at about 60% and notes that "new rainfall amounts less than a tenth of an inch" are expected. According to National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin, brief downpours could still cut visibility in a hurry, so plan on giving yourself some extra time to get where you are going early today.
Afternoon Gusts And A Quick Cool-Down
Once the front pushes through, the feel of the day flips. West to northwest winds will strengthen, with sustained speeds generally running from 6 to 15 mph and gusts reaching into the mid-20s. At the same time, temperatures slide from the mid-70s into the low 60s by late afternoon. Monday, February 23, 2026, will feel more like a different season, with highs only in the low to mid-50s and overnight lows dipping into the 30s away from the immediate coast. Secure loose outdoor items, and build in a little extra time for afternoon errands as those winds ramp up.
Outlook And Advisories
The National Weather Service in Ruskin has stacked up several coastal and inland advisories. A Rip Current Statement from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday morning warns of "dangerous rip currents expected." A Small Craft Advisory is in effect for the nearshore Gulf waters and Tampa Bay, and a Fire Weather Watch is posted for much of the area on Monday because of low humidity paired with gusty northwest winds. Taken together, that means beaches and small boats face the greatest risk through Monday, and anyone thinking about burning should hold off on nonessential outdoor fires. According to National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin, these hazards are expected to linger into early next week.
Local Resources
Hillsborough County coordinates cold-weather sheltering, with partner organizations opening warming sites when nighttime temperatures drop near or below 40°F. For specific shelter locations, contact information and transportation options, check coverage from ABC Action News.
If you are out and about Sunday, budget extra travel time in the morning, watch for brief heavy downpours, and keep an eye on changing beach flags if you decide to head to the coast. This story will be updated if any warnings or advisories are upgraded, added, or canceled.
