Florida – Cool air settles over Tampa Bay this New Year’s morning, with breath visible at sunrise and a quiet chill hanging over neighborhoods near the water. Cars feel cold to the touch, lawns stay dry, and the calm air makes the temperature feel even cooler before the sun takes over.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures dip into the low to mid-40s early, well below average for early January. Winds stay light, allowing pockets of cooler air to linger inland and across low-lying areas. Despite the chill, skies remain clear, setting up a quick warm-up later today.
Across Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater, commuters along I-275, I-4, and U.S. 19 should expect dry roads and smooth travel. The main impact is comfort, not safety, with jackets needed early before afternoon sunshine pushes highs into the upper 60s. Outdoor plans become more comfortable by midday as the winter bite fades.
Friday continues the warming trend. Highs climb into the low 70s under mostly sunny skies, signaling a shift toward a milder pattern. By Saturday, clouds increase and humidity creeps upward. Showers become possible later in the day, with rain chances increasing Saturday night. Some downpours could briefly slow travel and outdoor events.
Sunday brings improvement. Sunshine returns, highs settle near the low 70s, and roads dry out quickly. Nights cool back into the 50s, though no additional cold snaps are expected early next week. Overall, the first weekend of 2026 leans warm, with only a brief interruption from rain.
Enjoy the crisp start, but plan for lighter clothing later today. Heading out this weekend? Tell us how conditions feel around Tampa Bay.
Five-Day Outlook for Tampa Bay, FL
- New Year’s Day: Sunny after a cool start; high near 67°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny; high near 72°F
- Saturday: Partly sunny, showers possible late; high near 76°F
- Sunday: Sunny; high near 71°F
- Monday: Sunny; high near 74°F
