Tampa, Florida – Tampa residents are in for a sweltering and stormy stretch as daily thunderstorms and dangerous heat indexes grip the Bay Area through Friday. Intense afternoon storms could bring street flooding and hazardous lightning, while heat index values soar past 100°F in many neighborhoods.
According to the National Weather Service, a 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected today and tonight, with similar patterns continuing through Saturday. Afternoon highs will reach the low-to-mid 90s, but the combination of heat and humidity will push “feels-like” temperatures to 103°F or higher, especially in Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater. Gusty winds may lead to downed tree limbs, while heavy downpours could flood low-lying roads and neighborhoods during evening commutes.
Hillsborough and Pinellas counties should prepare for rapidly changing weather, including lightning delays at Tampa International Airport and possible scattered power outages. If you must travel, avoid flooded streets and never drive through standing water. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak heat, and secure outdoor furniture to prevent wind damage.
This extended pattern is typical for July but brings heightened risk due to persistent moisture and above-average temperatures. Afternoon thunderstorms may disrupt school and work routines across the Bay Area through at least Saturday.
Heat advisories and thunderstorm warnings remain in effect, with the next major update expected by Thursday morning.
Five-Day Tampa Bay Weather Outlook (July 22–26):
- Tuesday: Scattered thunderstorms likely, especially after 5 p.m. High: 91°F.
- Wednesday: Showers and storms possible, partly sunny. High: 90°F.
- Thursday: Thunderstorms likely in the afternoon. High: 94°F.
- Friday: More thunderstorms, heat index up to 103°F. High: 95°F.
- Saturday: Chance of afternoon storms, hot and humid. High: 95°F.
