Tampa starts Sunday, August 30, with clear skies and sticky air before the familiar afternoon storm pattern takes over. Temperatures will climb to about 91 degrees, while the heat index could reach 103 before showers and thunderstorms become more likely after 2 p.m.
The latest forecast calls for scattered storms between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., followed by a continued chance of rain through the afternoon. East-southeast winds should stay light near 6 mph, and Tampa could pick up between a half-inch and three-quarters of an inch of rain.
Storms Arrive After 2 P.M.
According to the National Weather Service, storms are expected to form inland before pushing toward the west coast and Gulf later Sunday. The strongest cells could bring frequent lightning, brief heavy downpours and gusty winds, with localized flooding possible in Tampa neighborhoods that drain poorly.
Sunday night stays unsettled, with widespread showers and thunderstorms expected before 9 p.m. and scattered storms possible through midnight. The low should settle near 75 degrees under mostly cloudy skies, so outdoor plans may need a backup location after sunset.
Rain Chances Stay Elevated Through Saturday
The wetter pattern continues Monday, August 31, with a high near 90 and scattered afternoon storms. Rain chances rise to 80% on Tuesday, September 1, and Wednesday, September 2, when highs should reach about 90 and 92 degrees and widespread storms are forecast after 2 p.m.
Thursday, September 3, brings another high near 92 with storms possible as early as 8 a.m., followed by a 70% rain chance Friday and a 60% chance Saturday. The outlook builds on the stormy stretch Hoodline previously reported, but the latest update keeps rain and thunder in the forecast nearly every day through the weekend.
No watches or warnings are currently in effect for Tampa. Still, residents should bring in outdoor plans when thunder is heard, avoid flooded roads and take shelter indoors during lightning or strong wind.
