Florida – Cold air pours across Tampa Bay as winds stiffen and skies turn unsettled, signaling a sharp shift from typical winter warmth. Palms bend, flags snap, and the temperature falls fast after sunset.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, a Freeze Warning, Cold Weather Advisory, Wind Advisory, High Surf Advisory, and Rip Current Statement remain in effect through Sunday morning. Northwest winds increase to 15 to 25 mph, with gusts near 40 mph. Temperatures drop into the low 30s inland, with wind chills falling into the 20s.
Showers move through earlier in the day, then clear rapidly as colder air arrives. That clearing allows heat to escape overnight. Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and inland Hillsborough and Polk counties face the coldest conditions since last winter. Sensitive plants, exposed pipes, and pets are at risk.
Drivers on I-275, I-4, and the Howard Frankland Bridge should prepare for strong crosswinds, especially overnight and early Sunday. Loose debris may blow onto roadways. High-profile vehicles could struggle at times.
Along the coast, dangerous marine conditions develop quickly. Rough surf and a high rip current risk make swimming unsafe through Sunday. Small craft advisories remain in effect across Tampa Bay and the eastern Gulf waters.
Sunday turns sunny but remains cool and breezy. Highs struggle to reach the upper 40s. Sunday night stays clear and cold, with another chilly start Monday morning. Temperatures rebound gradually next week, reaching the upper 60s by Tuesday and near 70 by midweek.
This Arctic outbreak stretches from the Great Lakes to Florida, with nearly half the Great Lakes frozen. Another cold front later next week could reinforce cooler air again.
Secure outdoor items, protect plants, and limit time outside overnight. Heading out early Sunday? Tell us how cold it felt where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Tampa Bay, FL
• Saturday: Showers early, windy, turning sharply colder
• Sunday: Sunny, breezy, high near 48
• Monday: Sunny, high near 58
• Tuesday: Sunny and milder, high near 66
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 71
