As of 5:35 a.m. EDT Wednesday, May 20, 2026, skies over Tampa were clear and temperatures hovered near 74°F with sticky humidity already in place. The area is expected to heat up into the low 90s, and scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast to pop after about 4 p.m., with brief heavy downpours that could snag late-afternoon plans.
Afternoon Storms Could Be Strong
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are most likely during the late afternoon and early evening, with an area-wide chance near 30 percent. A few stronger cells may produce wind gusts of 40–50 mph and small hail, and short bursts of heavy rain could briefly knock down visibility during the evening commute, according to the National Weather Service Tampa Bay. East winds will stay light, around 5–6 mph, so storms will tend to bubble up inland and then drift toward the bay.
Tonight Into Early Thursday
Scattered showers and storms should taper overnight, with the best odds before midnight, followed by a muggy low near 74°F. The chance of precipitation tonight is about 40 percent, with most spots only seeing brief, light rain and new totals generally under a tenth of an inch. If you have late-night outdoor plans, it is worth keeping an eye on radar for quick-hitting storms.
Weekend Outlook And Drought
Highs hold in the low 90s through Memorial Day, with daily afternoon storm chances hanging around. Isolated to scattered storms are most likely after 2–3 p.m. each day. The National Weather Service notes that severe to extreme drought is still locked in across much of west-central Florida, so these pop-up showers are unlikely to deliver any real relief. For more on the ongoing heat trend, see how Tampa turned into a steam bath in recent days.
How To Prepare
Bring a lightweight rain jacket if you will be out in the afternoon or evening, avoid driving through standing water, and secure loose outdoor items ahead of sudden gusts. Boaters and beachgoers should check forecasts before heading out, since storms can slide offshore quickly and kick up rough local seas.
