At 5:15 a.m. ET on Wednesday, July 1, the observation at Tampa International showed clear skies and about 75°F. The air is already muggy, and humidity is set to push heat-index values much higher this afternoon.
Skies stay mostly sunny this morning, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Highs are expected near 94°F and the heat index may reach about 103°F later in the day. Northeast winds of 3 to 8 mph are in the forecast, with new rainfall amounts around a tenth to a quarter of an inch in heavier downpours, according to the National Weather Service Tampa Bay.
Afternoon Storms Could Snarl The Commute
Sea-breeze-driven storms are expected to pop up from mid- to late-afternoon into the early evening, bringing brief heavy downpours, lightning and gusty, erratic winds near any thunderstorm. That timing lines up a little too neatly with the afternoon commute, so drivers should give themselves extra time. Flash flooding on low-lying roads is the main short-term hazard. If you have outdoor plans, line up an indoor alternative and keep an eye on radar.
Tonight And The Fourth
Tonight there is still a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10 p.m., with a low near 76°F and overnight heat-index readings holding in the upper 90s. The pattern stays hot through the weekend, with daily scattered afternoon and evening storms and highs in the low to mid-90s. Forecasters note daily maximum heat-index values of 100°F to 107°F are possible through the holiday weekend, so protect vulnerable people and pets accordingly.
Where To Cool Off
City-run cooling stations are available for anyone who needs air-conditioned relief. Past and commonly used sites include the David M. Barksdale Center at 1801 N. Lincoln Ave. and the George Bartholomew Center at 8608 N. 12th St. Check hours and the current list before you go, and visit the City of Tampa for updated locations and schedules.
Practical Safety Tips
Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activity in the midday heat, and move indoors if you hear thunder. Boaters and beachgoers should monitor conditions closely, since even small storms can produce gusty winds and locally rough seas.
