TAMPA, Fla. – Residents across the Tampa Bay area should keep both their rain gear and winter coats handy over the next 24 hours as a swift weather system brings a round of storms followed by a sharp drop in temperatures.
According to the National Weather Service, the region will see a shift starting late this afternoon. While today remains relatively mild with highs near 68 degrees, cloud cover is thickening. By 4 p.m., the chance of showers begins to creep in, setting the stage for a wet overnight period.
The bulk of the active weather is expected tonight. Forecasters predict an 80 percent chance of precipitation, with showers and possible thunderstorms rolling through before 4 a.m. Residents might hear some rumbles of thunder overnight, and rainfall totals generally between a tenth and a quarter of an inch are likely, though heavier downpours could occur in isolated storms.
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Thursday marks a transition day. Morning commuters might dodge a few lingering showers before 1 p.m., but the skies are expected to clear rapidly in the afternoon. However, as the sun returns, the wind picks up. A breezy northwest wind gusting as high as 25 mph will usher in significantly colder air. Despite the sunshine, Thursday’s high will struggle to reach 59 degrees.
The real chill arrives Thursday night. As the winds calm and skies clear, temperatures are forecast to plummet to around 30 degrees, bringing a genuine winter feel back to the region.
Heading into the weekend, the forecast looks bright but brisk. Friday will see sunny skies with a high near 58, dropping to a chilly 36 degrees overnight. Saturday offers a brief warm-up with highs rebounding to near 69 degrees, making it the mildest day of the outlook.
By Sunday, cooler air reinforces its grip, with highs dipping back to 61. The cool, crisp pattern holds steady for the holiday on Monday. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is expected to be sunny with a high near 60 degrees—perfect for outdoor parades and events, provided attendees dress in layers.
Extended Outlook
- Thursday Night: Mostly clear, Low ~30°F.
- Friday: Sunny, High ~58°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, High ~69°F.
- Sunday: Sunny, High ~61°F.
- MLK Day: Sunny, High ~60°F.
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