Tampa, Florida – Sweltering heat and sticky afternoons are gripping Tampa Bay as thunderstorm chances ease up going into the weekend, pushing heat index values into the triple digits across West Central and Southwest Florida.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, numerous thunderstorms remain likely Thursday afternoon, especially between 2 and 6 p.m., before a drier air mass gradually builds in. Rain chances drop from 60% Thursday to just 10–30% by Saturday, but the tradeoff will be intense heat, with feels-like temperatures reaching 106°F.
Highs across Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Sarasota counties will hover between 91°F and 98°F through Monday, with low overnight relief as temps only fall into the upper 70s. Areas farther inland, including Polk and Highlands counties, may experience even hotter afternoons due to reduced coastal breezes.
Drivers should watch for slick roads Thursday and Friday afternoon during peak thunderstorm hours. By Sunday, isolated showers remain possible, but the dominant story will be dangerous heat. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, limit midday outdoor activity, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Heat indices above 105°F are expected through early next week, and additional heat advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.
🌤 Five-Day Forecast for West Central and Southwest Florida:
- Thursday: Numerous PM storms (60–70%); Highs 90–94°F; Feels like 100–105°F
- Friday: Scattered PM storms (40–60%); Highs 91–96°F; Feels like 101–106°F
- Saturday: Isolated storms (10–30%); Highs 91–97°F; Feels like 101–106°F
- Sunday: Isolated storms (20–40%); Highs 92–97°F; Feels like 104–110°F
- Monday: Scattered storms (30–50%); Highs 93–98°F; Feels like 103–110°F
