Tampa, FL – Residents across West Central and Southwest Florida should prepare for another hot and humid day today, with scattered to numerous afternoon and evening thunderstorms expected to develop.
According to the National Weather Service Tampa Bay, high temperatures will reach the upper 80s along the coast and the middle 90s inland. Combined with high humidity, heat index values may feel between 98 and 104 degrees this afternoon.
Forecasters note the highest thunderstorm chances will occur across interior counties and Southwest Florida. The storms could bring locally heavy downpours, frequent lightning, and brief gusty winds. While widespread severe weather is not expected, conditions could disrupt late-day commutes and outdoor plans.
Light winds are forecast through much of the day, shifting west at 5 to 10 mph near the coast by the afternoon. Meteorologists caution that outdoor workers and those planning extended time outside should take precautions against heat-related illness, including staying hydrated and taking breaks in shaded areas.
Thunderstorm activity is expected to diminish later this evening, though another round of hot and unsettled weather is likely through the remainder of the week.
