Tampa is heading into another sweltering summer day, with temperatures climbing toward 94°F and the heat index pushing as high as 104. The payoff for enduring the humidity is only a modest one: isolated showers and thunderstorms may pop up from late morning through the afternoon.
Heat Builds Before Afternoon Storms
The best chance for a passing shower or rumble of thunder is between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Friday, when rain chances sit around 20%. Most spots will stay partly sunny, and any rainfall is expected to be light, though a storm could still deliver a quick downpour, lightning and a brief wind shift.
Winds will generally stay light from the south southwest at up to 8 mph. The National Weather Service Tampa Bay office says heat indexes should remain just below advisory levels, but readings from 103°F to 107°F are expected across parts of the broader region. The National Weather Service has no watches, warnings or advisories posted for Tampa.
Warm Nights And A Wetter Weekend
Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 78°F, while lingering humidity could make it feel closer to 99°F. Saturday will be slightly less hot, with a high near 92°F and scattered showers and thunderstorms possible from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Rain chances increase to 40% Sunday, with another high around 92°F and scattered storms likely. The unsettled pattern continues next week, as highs reach 94°F Monday and Tuesday, 95°F Wednesday and 94°F Thursday; afternoon storm chances rise to 50% by Thursday.
Plan Around The Storm Window
Outdoor plans should be most comfortable early in the day, before the strongest heat and storm activity arrive. If thunder is audible, head indoors, and keep water handy even during brief errands because Tampa's humidity will make the afternoon feel hotter than the thermometer suggests.
