Tampa is starting Tuesday with clear skies, thick humidity and temperatures in the mid-70s, but the calm will not last all day. Sunshine will push the temperature toward 91 degrees, while the heat index could reach 101 before showers and thunderstorms become more likely during the afternoon.
Afternoon Storms Could Bring Heavy Rain
Isolated showers and thunderstorms may develop around 1 p.m., with storm chances increasing through the afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service’s Tampa Bay office says a storm could drop roughly a quarter-inch to a half-inch of rain, along with frequent lightning and gusty, erratic winds.
Rain chances rise to about 70% Tuesday, and a separate round of showers or thunderstorms remains possible before 11 p.m. The overnight low should settle near 75 degrees under mostly cloudy skies, with no active watches or warnings listed for the area.
Stormy Pattern Holds Through Labor Day
The unsettled pattern is expected to stick around all week, according to the National Weather Service. Wednesday brings a high near 90 with a 70% chance of afternoon storms, while Thursday looks especially wet, with widespread thunderstorms and a 90% rain chance.
Friday should again reach the low 90s before widespread afternoon and evening storms arrive. Saturday through Labor Day will remain mostly sunny at times but still carry daily thunderstorm chances between 60% and 70%, with overnight lows generally in the mid-70s.
Plan Outdoor Time Around the Storm Window
For Tampa residents, the best outdoor window will likely be the morning, before storms become more numerous after lunch. Anyone caught outside should move indoors at the first sound of thunder, while drivers should watch for sudden downpours, reduced visibility and water collecting on urban roads.
Winds should generally stay light, with a late-afternoon sea breeze near the coast. That breeze can help push storms toward the water later in the day, but boaters should still be prepared for quick changes and lightning over area waters.
