Tampa, Florida – Thunderstorms will hammer Tampa as early as 8 a.m. Wednesday, putting drivers on I-275 and across Hillsborough County at risk for sudden downpours and slick roads. Temperatures will peak near 90°F, but high humidity and morning storms will be the main story for anyone heading out midweek.
According to the National Weather Service, scattered showers and thunderstorms will likely develop before dawn and grow stronger after sunrise, with an 80% chance of rain for the Tampa area. The greatest risk stretches from the early morning through late afternoon, with new rainfall amounts reaching up to a half-inch in some spots. Commuters should expect slower travel along I-275, Kennedy Boulevard, and local arteries. Residents are urged to delay non-essential trips, watch for flooded intersections, and keep phones charged for weather alerts.
Wednesday night, storms may continue until midnight before giving way to calmer skies and lows in the mid-70s. The pattern remains active into Thursday and Friday, as more scattered storms are set to return both afternoons, keeping roads slick and humidity high. Outdoor plans for the weekend? Saturday and Sunday bring more rounds of thunderstorms, with daily rain chances near 60% and highs in the low 90s.
What’s next: Showers and storms stick around through Monday, with little break in the muggy summer weather. Keep an umbrella handy, and stay tuned for further advisories if rainfall totals increase.
Five Day Tampa Weather Outlook (WEDNESDAY, JULY 16TH – MONDAY, JULY 21ST):
- Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely by 8 a.m., high near 90°F. Humid.
- Thursday: More scattered storms, high of 92°F. Roads may stay slick into the evening.
- Friday: Thunderstorms likely, especially after 2 p.m., high 94°F. Stay weather-aware.
- Saturday: Thunderstorms possible, high near 94°F. Showers may linger through the evening.
- Sunday: Continued storm risk, mostly sunny periods, high 94°F.
- Monday: Showers and thunderstorms, high near 94°F. No major break in the summer pattern.
Warnings remain in effect for thunderstorms and heavy rain through Monday. Check for updated advisories each morning.
