Tampa is waking up to a clear and muggy start today with temperatures hovering near 75°F and dew points in the low 70s that make the air feel extra sticky. Skies should stay mostly sunny through late morning, but scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to bubble up after 2 p.m. Highs will climb to around 93°F inland, with heat index values pushing toward 100°F this afternoon. There are no active watches or warnings this morning, although brief heavy downpours could pop up with stronger storms.
Afternoon Storms And Heat
Forecasters at the National Weather Service in Ruskin say the best chance for storms arrives this afternoon, with roughly a 50% probability and most cells forming after 2 p.m. Heavier storms could bring brief heavy rain, frequent lightning, and gusty winds. The office also notes that a few stronger storms may produce wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph and small hail, even as drought conditions across West Central and Southwest Florida remain moderate to exceptional. Showers should taper off overnight, with lows near 73°F, according to the National Weather Service.
Heat Safety And Planning
The humidity and afternoon heat can make outdoor work or exercise feel especially draining, so it is a good idea to move intense activity to the morning or evening, drink water often, and take frequent shade breaks. If you need official guidance on staying cool or finding local assistance, check the City of Tampa heat resilience guide. If you are running outdoor events this afternoon, have a plan ready to pause activities for lightning and heavy rain.
Commute And Boating
Late-afternoon storms can sharply cut visibility and create standing water on roadways, so expect slower traffic during the evening commute and build in extra travel time. Boaters should delay departures while storms are nearby, since cells that push offshore may kick up locally rough seas and strong gusts. For radar and the latest updates, see the National Weather Service.
Bottom line: bring water and a light rain jacket if you are heading out this afternoon, and check radar before driving or boating. This page will be updated if any watches or warnings are issued later in the day.
