Florida wakes up cooler than expected along Tampa Bay. Crisp air hugs the shoreline, and the morning feels more like early winter than February. Temperatures hover in the low to mid-40s, catching early commuters and joggers off guard.
This cool start fades quickly. Sunshine dominates today as dry northwest winds move through West Central Florida. Winds stay light to moderate, but the early chill lingers near the water. Drivers along I-275, I-4, and the Courtney Campbell Causeway may notice cooler air funneling across open spans before midmorning.
By afternoon, temperatures rebound into the low 60s, making today feel far more comfortable than sunrise suggested. Skies remain clear, and no rain interrupts plans. Tonight stays calm and cool, with lows settling into the low 50s, a noticeable but brief cool-down.
Saturday signals a clear shift. Sunshine continues, winds relax, and highs climb into the upper 60s. Outdoor conditions improve quickly, and the day feels more like classic Florida winter weather. Sunday pushes the warming trend further. Afternoon highs reach around 70 degrees, with abundant sunshine and lighter winds.
Meteorologists now point to a broader warming pattern taking hold. While snow and Arctic air dominate much of the northern and eastern U.S., Florida sits under a building ridge of warmer air. By Monday and Tuesday, highs climb into the low to mid-70s, and overnight lows trend milder, landing in the upper 40s to mid-50s.
No rain is expected through the period, but the dry air and cool mornings may still surprise residents. Dress in layers early, then shed them by afternoon. February may start brisk, but springlike weather is lining up fast. Feeling the chill this morning, or ready for the warm-up?
Five Day Outlook
- Saturday: Sunny, pleasant. High 68°F.
- Sunday: Sunny, warmer. High 70°F.
- Monday: Sunny, mild. High 72°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High 76°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny and warm. High 76°F.
