Florida – Warm sunshine already spreads across Tampa Bay this morning, and the air carries a hint of summer. Temperatures climb quickly toward 89°F today, but a stretch of stormy spring weather is beginning to build across the Gulf Coast before Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, clear skies dominate early with calm winds becoming southerly around 5 to 7 mph by late morning. Sunshine pushes temperatures close to 90°F this afternoon across Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Brandon.
Conditions stay quiet tonight with partly cloudy skies and lows near 69°F. Humid air remains in place across Hillsborough County, setting the stage for thunderstorm development later this week.
By Thursday afternoon, scattered showers and thunderstorms begin forming inland before drifting toward the coast. Rain chances climb to about 60 percent with storms developing after 2 p.m.
Drivers along I-275, I-4, and the Veterans Expressway should watch for slick pavement during passing storms. Brief downpours could quickly reduce visibility during the afternoon commute.
Storm chances remain elevated Thursday evening as showers linger across the Tampa Bay area. Lightning and isolated gusty winds are possible with stronger cells.
Friday brings another round of unsettled weather. Meteorologists say scattered thunderstorms may redevelop after 2 p.m. with highs near 83°F. Expect periods of sun mixed with quick-moving downpours.
The pattern stays active through the weekend. Scattered storms remain possible Saturday and Sunday as spring break travel ramps up across Florida highways and airports.
Despite the rain chances, temperatures remain warm with highs in the mid-80s across the region.
Long-range outlooks show continued warmth spreading across the Southeast as spring approaches on March 20.
Are you seeing early heat or building clouds around Tampa Bay today? Let us know what conditions feel like in your neighborhood.
Five Day Forecast for Tampa, FL
Thursday: Chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. High 83°F.
Friday: Scattered showers and thunderstorms possible. High 83°F.
Saturday: Chance of thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 85°F.
Sunday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. High 85°F.
Monday: Scattered showers and thunderstorms. High 82°F.
