Tampa, Florida – Thunder rolls back into the Tampa Bay area this week, threatening daily disruptions and wet commutes for residents from Tuesday through Sunday. The region will be on high alert for flash flooding, dangerous lightning, and sudden downpours that could bring traffic to a standstill on key roadways like I-275 and Bayshore Boulevard.
According to the National Weather Service, Tuesday’s storms will develop after 11 a.m., peaking in the afternoon with a 90% chance of rain and a high near 90°F. Showers and isolated thunderstorms could drop up to half an inch of rain, so drivers should expect slick roads and reduced visibility through the evening. The threat continues Tuesday night, with additional thunderstorms likely before midnight.
Wednesday brings no relief, as thunderstorms are expected throughout the day and evening, keeping the risk of flooding and lightning high. South winds will make humid conditions feel even hotter, and outdoor plans may need a backup option.
The summer pattern locks in for Tampa as the week goes on. Thunderstorms are likely every afternoon through Friday, with highs soaring to 93°F by the weekend. Expect more heavy rain, occasional gusty winds, and dangerous lightning. Residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel during peak storm hours, charge devices ahead of power outages, and check local alerts for possible flood advisories.
Looking ahead: This weekend’s forecast keeps the thunderstorm threat in play. Hot, humid air continues with highs in the low 90s and rain chances remaining near 60-70% each afternoon. Keep an umbrella handy and monitor weather alerts through Sunday, as additional storms could pop up into early next week.
Five-Day Forecast: Tampa, FL (Tuesday, July 15 – Sunday, July 20)
- Tuesday: Scattered storms likely after 11 a.m. High 90°F. Chance of rain 90%.
- Wednesday: Thunderstorms throughout the day. High 88°F. Chance of rain 80%.
- Thursday: More storms likely, mostly in the afternoon. High 90°F. Rain chance 70%.
- Friday: Scattered thunderstorms, high 93°F. Rain chance 60%.
- Saturday-Sunday: Continued summer pattern — storms likely both days, highs in low 90s, rain chance 60-70%.
