Tampa is starting Thursday under cloudy skies and widespread rain chances, with thunderstorms expected to become more common through the day. A flood watch is in effect as deep tropical moisture fuels downpours across the city and much of west-central Florida.
The forecast calls for scattered storms early, followed by widespread showers and thunderstorms from late morning through the afternoon. Tampa could reach about 82 degrees before temperatures slide toward the upper 70s, while rainfall totals are expected to reach 1 to 3 inches in many locations, with locally higher amounts possible.
Flooding Risk Builds Through Thursday
The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch through Thursday evening into midnight Friday for Hillsborough, Pinellas and surrounding counties. Officials warn that heavy runoff could flood poor-drainage areas, streets, creeks and other low-lying locations, especially where rainstorms repeatedly pass over the same area.
Showers are possible later in the day. Drivers should expect ponding on roads, reduced visibility and slower travel during the strongest downpours.
Storm Chances Continue Into The Weekend
Friday brings a brief break from the most widespread rain, but scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms remain likely, with a high near 87 and heat index values approaching 100. Saturday and Sunday stay hot near 88 degrees, with scattered storms and gusty winds continuing to affect outdoor plans.
Coastal conditions also become more concerning Friday and Saturday. A coastal flood advisory covers shoreline areas from Yankeetown to Egmont Key from Friday morning through Saturday morning, with tides expected to run 1 to 3 feet above astronomical levels and dangerous rip currents possible at area beaches.
Sunshine Returns Next Week
Rain chances begin to ease Monday, when isolated showers and thunderstorms are possible, then drop sharply Tuesday and Wednesday. Both days are expected to be sunny with highs in the upper 80s, while overnight lows fall into the low 70s.
