Tampa, FL – A noticeable surge of colder air is moving into the Tampa Bay area late Sunday night, setting the stage for a chilly start to Monday across west-central Florida.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, a cold front passing through the region will allow cooler and drier air to quickly filter in overnight. By early Monday morning, temperatures across the area are expected to fall into the low to mid 30s, with some inland locations dropping even lower.
While actual air temperatures will hover above freezing for most of the region, strong northeast winds will make it feel much colder. Forecasters say wind gusts could reach up to 30 miles per hour, pushing wind chill values into the mid to upper 20s, especially across the Nature Coast and more exposed inland areas. The lowest wind chill values are expected to dip near 25 degrees around sunrise Monday.
The coldest conditions are forecast between midnight and mid-morning Monday, when residents heading out early for work or school will feel the biggest impact. Along the coast, temperatures will remain slightly milder, but breezy conditions will still add a sharp chill to the air.
Officials recommend dressing in layers, especially during the early morning hours, and securing loose outdoor items that could be affected by gusty winds. Pet owners should ensure animals have warm shelter overnight, particularly in northern and rural areas.
Despite the cold start, temperatures will gradually rebound later Monday afternoon as sunshine returns. Afternoon highs are expected to climb into the 50s, offering some relief after the brisk morning.
Residents across the Tampa Bay area are encouraged to stay weather-aware and prepare for the brief but noticeable cold snap as the workweek begins.
