Tampa, Fla. – Holiday travel plans across Florida may slow down as strong storms threaten Tampa Bay on Labor Day. Drivers should prepare for heavy rain and lightning, with scattered downpours expected to impact I-275 and surrounding roads through Monday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Ruskin, showers and thunderstorms will peak Monday after 2 p.m., with rainfall totals reaching up to half an inch in spots. High humidity and heat will push “feels like” temperatures near 100 degrees before storms move in. Power outages and flash flooding are possible in low-lying neighborhoods.
Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater can expect the most persistent storms Monday evening, with travel delays possible at Tampa International Airport. Commuters should allow extra time on major roadways, especially I-4 and I-75, where wet pavement could cause dangerous driving conditions.
Tuesday brings another round of storms, mainly in the afternoon. However, a shift toward slightly cooler air arrives by midweek, bringing overnight lows into the mid-70s. By Wednesday night, drier pockets could briefly return before storms increase again late week.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak thunderstorm hours. Strong lightning strikes will remain a primary hazard through Wednesday.
Warnings may be updated throughout the holiday. Keep weather radios and mobile alerts active as conditions evolve.
Five Day Forecast for Tampa, Fla.:
- Labor Day Monday: Thunderstorms likely, high near 90. Storms strongest after 2 p.m.
- Tuesday: Afternoon storms, high near 90. Evening scattered showers.
- Wednesday: Showers and storms, high near 88. Cooler overnight at 76.
- Thursday: Partly sunny with storms possible. High near 90.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, scattered afternoon storms. High near 91.
