Tampa is heading into a storm-prone Sunday, with mostly cloudy skies, scattered showers and thunderstorms, and a 70% chance of rain. Temperatures could reach about 87 degrees before slipping toward the low 80s during the afternoon, when downpours may become locally heavy.
Storms Could Bring Heavy Downpours
Showers and thunderstorms are expected at times from the morning through the afternoon, with south-southwest winds running 5 to 13 mph. Rainfall of roughly one-half to three-quarters of an inch is possible, while isolated heavier bursts could create ponding on roads and trouble for low-lying areas.
The National Weather Service says the heaviest rainfall threat is north of Tampa along the Nature Coast, but scattered to numerous storms are possible across the broader Tampa Bay region. A brief lull could develop late Sunday afternoon or evening before another round of showers and storms returns overnight.
Rip Currents Remain A Beach Hazard
A rip current statement remains in effect through 8 p.m. Sunday for Pinellas, coastal Hillsborough and other Gulf-facing counties. Beachgoers should swim near a lifeguard, avoid fighting the current if caught, and float while signaling for help if they cannot move back toward shore.
Boaters should also watch for a Small Craft Advisory on northern Gulf waters from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Storms can bring sudden wind shifts, reduced visibility and dangerous lightning even when conditions are calm at the shoreline.
Heat Builds Again By Midweek
Monday brings a high near 90 with a heat index as high as 98 and a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Tuesday should reach about 91 degrees with a 50% rain chance, followed by highs near 93 from Wednesday through Saturday.
The later-week pattern looks more like classic Tampa summer weather: mostly sunny mornings followed by afternoon or evening storms. Rain chances rise to around 70% Wednesday through Friday, with overnight lows generally staying in the mid-70s.
