TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Afternoon storms and dangerous heat are set to grip the Florida Panhandle starting Thursday, with temperatures pushing into the mid-90s and heat index values climbing as high as 103. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to peak in coverage through the weekend, creating hazards for both drivers and outdoor events.
According to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, thunderstorms are likely Thursday afternoon, with the greatest risk of heavy downpours and lightning between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Winds remain light, but humid air will make conditions feel oppressive across Leon, Gadsden, and Wakulla counties.
Storm chances climb even higher Friday and Saturday, with up to an 80% likelihood of afternoon showers. Roadways such as I-10 and US-319 could see reduced visibility during rush hour. Outdoor workers and students returning to campus should take precautions against both heat stress and sudden lightning strikes.
Residents are urged to limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak heating hours, stay hydrated, and seek shelter quickly when storms roll in. Localized flooding in low-lying neighborhoods is possible if multiple storms track over the same areas.
Unsettled conditions are expected to persist into early next week, though storm coverage may lessen by Tuesday.
Five Day Forecast for Tallahassee, FL
- Wednesday: High 94, isolated storms after 2 p.m.
- Thursday: High 93, storms likely, heat index up to 103.
- Friday: High 91, storms likely, 80% chance of rain.
- Saturday: High 89, widespread thunderstorms, 80% chance.
- Sunday: High 87, scattered storms, 60% chance.
