TAMPA, Fla. – Dangerous storms and extreme heat will push into Tampa on Tuesday, bringing another round of travel headaches and safety risks for residents. Drivers along I-275 should prepare for heavy rain, low visibility, and possible street flooding by the afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are likely after 7 a.m. Tuesday with peak heat index values near 102. Lightning and downpours could cause brief power outages and delays at Tampa International Airport. Commuters should avoid flooded roadways and plan for extra time during morning and evening travel.
Rain chances climb to 70% Tuesday, with storms tapering late at night. West-central Florida, including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Brandon, will face similar impacts. Scattered showers are expected to return Wednesday and continue into the weekend, keeping roads slick and outdoor events at risk of disruption.
City officials urge residents to charge devices, check storm drains, and avoid outdoor activities during peak lightning hours. With Labor Day weekend approaching, forecasters warn that heat and daily storms will remain a concern across the Tampa Bay area.
While no widespread flooding alerts have been issued yet, conditions could worsen quickly during slow-moving downpours. Stay tuned for additional advisories as the holiday weekend nears.
Five-Day Forecast for Tampa, Florida
- Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, high 90. Heat index up to 102. Chance of rain 70%.
- Wednesday: Showers and storms likely, high 92. Rain chances 60%.
- Thursday: Storm chances remain, high 94 with scattered thunderstorms.
- Friday: Partly sunny with storms possible, high 92. Rain chances 60%.
- Saturday (Labor Day Weekend begins): Thunderstorms likely, high 92. Outdoor events at risk of disruption.
