TAMPA, Fla. – Drivers across Florida’s Gulf Coast should brace for a stormy Thursday as scattered showers and thunderstorms sweep into Tampa Bay. Commuters on I-275 and surrounding highways may see slowed travel during the afternoon rush, with heavy downpours possible by 2 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Ruskin, storms will intensify Thursday afternoon, bringing lightning, gusty winds, and a high near 91 degrees. Heat index values may climb to 98, creating sweltering conditions before storms move through. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours and secure outdoor belongings.
By Thursday evening, showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected to linger until around midnight, with rainfall tapering into the early hours Friday. Conditions remain unsettled heading into the weekend, with Friday highs reaching 92 and another round of afternoon thunderstorms expected.
Saturday offers a brief break with partly sunny skies and lighter winds, though scattered evening showers could still pop up. Sunday brings similar chances for afternoon storms, while Monday and Tuesday both carry a 30–60% chance of thunderstorms, keeping the area in a wet late-summer pattern.
Residents should monitor alerts and plan for possible changes to outdoor events, especially evening football games and weekend gatherings. Staying hydrated and limiting outdoor exposure during peak heat is advised.
Warnings remain possible into next week as fall approaches with a stormy start across central Florida.
Five Day Forecast for Tampa, Florida
- Thursday: High 91, thunderstorms likely after 2 p.m., evening showers continue.
- Friday: High 92, scattered storms, humid conditions.
- Saturday: High 93, mostly sunny, evening showers possible.
- Sunday: High 93, scattered afternoon thunderstorms.
- Monday: High 92, storms likely in the afternoon.
