Tampa woke to clear skies and sticky air Saturday, with temperatures in the upper 70s early and a high near 94 ahead. The calm is on borrowed time: scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected after 2 p.m., with the heat index reaching as high as 104. Another stormy stretch is taking shape for the Tampa Bay area through early next week.
Afternoon Storms Could Bring Gusty Winds
Saturday should stay mostly sunny through midday before storms develop during the afternoon, with the rain chance rising to about 50%. Downpours could drop between a quarter-inch and a half-inch of rain, while temperatures may fall into the upper 80s as storms move through. The National Weather Service says a few storms could produce wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph, and an isolated severe storm cannot be ruled out.
Sunday Through Tuesday Look Even Wetter
Saturday night brings a chance of storms before 8 p.m., followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms through late evening, with a low near 76. Sunday will reach about 92 degrees with a 70% chance of afternoon storms, and Sunday night could bring more widespread rain and thunderstorms. Monday and Tuesday are expected to remain mostly sunny early before widespread afternoon storms develop, with rain chances around 80% both days.
Plan Outdoor Time Early
Light winds are expected much of the period, but storms may bring sudden gusts, brief heavy rain and reduced visibility. Outdoor plans are safest in the morning, before the main storm window opens, and anyone on the water should be alert for rough conditions near thunderstorms. No watches, warnings or advisories are currently listed for Tampa.
-4.webp?w=160&h=400&fit=crop&crop=edges)
