Tampa woke Friday to clear skies, temperatures around 81 degrees and tropical humidity, but the easy-looking morning is a setup for a much rougher afternoon. The city is headed for a high near 98, with heat index values potentially reaching 111.
Heat Advisory Covers Friday Afternoon
A Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday across Tampa Bay and much of west central and southwest Florida. The National Weather Service advises residents to drink fluids, use air conditioning, avoid direct sun and check on relatives and neighbors.
Storms Arrive After 1 P.M.
Skies should stay sunny through late morning, with isolated showers and thunderstorms possible between 1 and 2 p.m. Storm chances rise to about 40% through the afternoon and early evening, with brief rainfall totals around a tenth to a quarter inch possible.
Most storms should be scattered rather than all-day rain, but a few could turn strong, with wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph possible. The forecast discussion says an isolated severe storm cannot be ruled out, so outdoor plans should have a quick indoor backup.
Weekend Heat Sticks Around
Saturday looks much the same: sunny, near 98, with a 20% chance of an isolated shower or thunderstorm mainly between 2 and 4 p.m. Saturday night should be mostly clear with a low around 78.
Sunday brings more sunshine and a high near 97, with little rain expected, while Monday stays sunny and near 97. Rain chances tick back up Tuesday through Thursday, but the heat remains stubborn, with highs in the mid-to-upper 90s.
