By 5:35 a.m. EDT today, Tampa Bay was already starting the day on the sticky side, with mostly cloudy skies, a muggy feel, temperatures hovering near 67°F and humidity deep in the mid 90s. The atmosphere will flip to a warm, mostly sunny setup by midday, sending highs toward 88°F before a front slides through later on and cranks up a noticeably stronger northeast breeze across the metro and waterfront this evening.
Afternoon Heat And Growing Gusts
Through the afternoon, expect mostly sunny skies and a high near 88°F, then a gradual slide into the low 80s as the front edges in. North winds will generally run about 2 to 13 mph, with occasional gusts up to roughly 21 mph, especially along the coast and in more open spots. Rain chances stay very low on Saturday, so outdoor plans should hold up fine, although you will likely feel that breeze picking up toward evening.
Breezy Night And Blustery Sunday
Tonight, winds swing around to the northeast and strengthen, with temperatures dipping to around 65°F and gusts that could reach about 29 mph late Saturday into Sunday. The National Weather Service Tampa Bay notes that advisory level winds and choppy seas are likely Saturday night into Sunday, so small craft operators will want to plan with extra care. Sunday, March 29, trends a bit cooler, with a high near 81°F and a slight chance of afternoon showers, mainly for areas south of I 4.
Rain Odds Nudge Up As Week Rolls On
A slight chance of showers returns Sunday afternoon, but the better shot at wet weather comes Monday afternoon, when showers and a few thunderstorms become more likely after 2 p.m., with rain probabilities around 40 to 50%. By Tuesday and Wednesday, temperatures rebound and highs climb back into the mid to upper 80s. Local water managers have already tightened watering limits amid an ongoing drought, so even scattered rain this week would be welcome, according to Axios Tampa Bay.
How To Ride Out The Wind And Heat
Before the breeze kicks up, it is a good idea to secure loose patio furniture and anything else that can get tossed around, and to expect a windier than usual evening commute. Onshore flow will leave the bay choppy and may boost rip current risk at area beaches. Boaters should stay on top of the latest marine forecasts and think about holding off on any nonessential trips if Small Craft Advisories go up late Saturday night into Sunday. With afternoon heat running on the toasty side, keep water handy and try to schedule heavier outdoor chores for the cooler morning hours whenever possible.
