Florida – A sharp north breeze moves across Tampa Bay before sunrise, rattling palms and pushing gray clouds over the water. The air feels unusually cold for mid-January, and conditions demand attention both inland and along the coast.
The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory for the Tampa Bay area through mid-morning. Wind chills drop as low as 28 degrees, especially before sunrise and in open areas. Temperatures hover in the upper 30s early, then recover slowly under increasing sunshine. Gusty northwest winds make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
At the same time, a High Rip Current Risk remains in effect along Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee County beaches through the afternoon. Strong onshore winds and rough surf create dangerous swimming conditions. Even experienced swimmers can be pulled offshore quickly.
Drivers heading out early should expect cold, stiff winds on bridges like the Sunshine Skyway and Courtney Campbell Causeway. Pedestrians and cyclists feel the chill most before mid-morning. Dress in layers, and limit prolonged outdoor exposure.
Friday brings rapid improvement. Sunshine dominates, winds ease, and highs rebound to near 60 by afternoon. Friday night stays cool, with lows in the low 40s.
The weekend turns noticeably warmer. Saturday features mostly sunny skies and highs near the low 70s. A few light showers are possible late Saturday night. Sunday brings a higher chance of showers, mainly before midday, with highs in the low 60s. Another cool night follows Sunday evening, though not as cold as this morning.
Beachgoers should stay out of the water today. Cold-sensitive plants and pets need protection early. How cold did it feel where you are this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Tampa Bay, Florida
Today: Breezy and cold early, clearing, high near 61°F
Friday: Sunny and cool, high near 60°F
Saturday: Mostly sunny and warmer, high near 72°F
Sunday: Chance of showers, cooler, high near 62°F
Monday: Sunny and mild, high near 59°F
