Tampa, Fla. – Florida heat holds strong, but Tampa Bay residents should brace for midweek storms that could slow evening commutes and outdoor plans. With highs reaching the low 90s, the stretch of sunshine will give way to scattered showers and storms by Wednesday afternoon, September 17. Travel on major roadways, including I-275, may be affected during peak hours.
According to the National Weather Service, Tuesday will stay mostly sunny and hot with highs near 91 degrees. Wednesday brings a 20 percent chance of isolated thunderstorms after 2 p.m., followed by increased rain chances Thursday through Saturday. East winds up to 10 mph could push storms inland during the late afternoon, raising risks for lightning and slick roads.
Locals in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater should plan for possible disruptions. Outdoor workers and school activities may face delays, while evening drivers should prepare for reduced visibility on wet roads. Keep phones charged, allow extra travel time, and avoid flooded intersections.
The storm chances build toward the weekend, with 30 percent rain coverage expected each afternoon Friday through Sunday. While no widespread flooding is anticipated, brief heavy downpours remain possible in low-lying areas.
Warm September sunshine continues to dominate early in the week, but Florida’s fall weather pattern signals afternoon storms returning by midweek.
Five-Day Forecast for Tampa, FL
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 91. Northeast wind around 7 mph.
- Wednesday: Isolated storms after 2 p.m., high near 91. Chance of rain 20%.
- Thursday: Scattered afternoon storms, high near 89. Chance of rain 30%.
- Friday: Showers and thunderstorms likely after 2 p.m., high near 90. Chance of rain 30%.
- Saturday: Afternoon storms continue, high near 90. Chance of rain 30%.
