Tampa, Fla. – Drivers across Tampa Bay should prepare for wet roads and possible lightning delays Thursday as scattered thunderstorms threaten to disrupt morning and evening travel. With Patriot Day observances scheduled, storms could complicate outdoor memorial events across Hillsborough County.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are likely after 3 p.m. Thursday, with rain chances near 50%. The region may see locally heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, and cloud-to-ground lightning. Commuters along I-275 and I-4 should expect slower travel and potential standing water through late evening.
North winds at 6 to 8 mph will offer little relief from heat, with highs near 89 degrees and a heat index topping 95. Storms may taper overnight, but isolated showers remain possible into early Friday morning.
Friday turns partly sunny with another round of isolated afternoon storms. Temperatures stay hot, pushing 89 again, though chances for rain fall to 20%. Outdoor plans for the weekend face fewer interruptions, as both Saturday and Sunday look mostly sunny with only small storm risks.
Residents should secure outdoor items, check event updates, and allow extra commute time on Thursday. Keep phones charged and avoid driving through flooded intersections.
The next round of storms is expected early next week, with rain chances returning Monday and Tuesday.
Five-Day Forecast for Tampa, Fla.
- Thursday: Scattered thunderstorms, high near 89. Rain chance 50%.
- Friday: Partly sunny, isolated storms. High 89. Rain chance 20%.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, slight storm chance. High 89.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny with isolated showers. High 89. Rain chance 20%.
- Monday: Isolated showers and storms. High 89. Rain chance 20%.
