Tampa wakes up to a mostly clear, muggy morning with temperatures near 76°F, but by early afternoon the sky flips script as isolated showers and thunderstorms move in between 1 and 2 PM ET, pushing toward a high near 90°F (heat index up to 99°F) before temperatures actually fall to around 85°F. The National Weather Service in Ruskin says an easterly tropical wave is sliding across the peninsula today, and this is a classic summertime setup — get your outdoor plans in early.
Today’s Setup
According to the NWS Area Forecast Discussion, easterly flow around a Bermuda-to-Carolinas ridge is steering a tropical wave through the area this afternoon and evening, bringing numerous to widespread storms with some cells capable of dumping 2-3 inches of rain, similar to Thursday. Coverage is highest over the central and western part of the state — that includes us. Chance of precipitation sits at 71% today and 67% overnight.
Best Window To Be Outside
Morning through early afternoon is your window. If you’re walking Bayshore Boulevard, hitting the links at one of the courses near Al Lopez Park, or getting a paddleboard session in off St. Pete or Clearwater, aim to be done by 1 PM. Golfers should tee off at sunrise — conditions are calm (wind just 5 to 9 mph out of the ENE) and pleasant before the humidity and storms build. A golf ball gift set Titleist makes a nice grab if you’re stocking your bag for a hot-weather round.
Storm & Flood Risk
The Weather Prediction Center has placed much of Florida, including Tampa Bay, in a Marginal Risk for excessive rainfall today, with deep tropical moisture in place. Heavy downpours could produce localized flash flooding, especially in low-lying spots around Davis Islands and Ybor City. If you’re boating today, check radar before heading out — a West Marine Ski Vest is a smart addition if you haven’t restocked your life jackets for the season.
What To Wear Or Bring
Light, breathable clothing and sun protection for the morning, plus a rain layer for the afternoon. Anglers and beachgoers should consider sun protection too.
Tonight’s Mumford & Sons Show
Mumford & Sons bring the Prizefighter Tour to Benchmark International Arena tonight, August 7. With storms possible through the evening, indoor arena shows are a safe bet regardless of what’s happening outside. Grab tickets on SeatGeek or Find tickets on StubHub, and pick up a Mumford & Sons t-shirt to wear to the show.
Dinner Tonight
With storms clearing to mostly cloudy skies by evening, it’s perfect grilling weather — fire up the grill for burgers, steaks, or grilled chicken with corn on the cob between rain chances. An instant-read meat thermometer and a grill brush and scraper set will make cleanup and cooking painless. Need ingredients? You can order groceries on Amazon and have everything for tonight’s dinner delivered to your door.
Next Few Days
Saturday looks similar with a high near 91°F and numerous to widespread storms, while Sunday trends toward scattered storms as coverage eases slightly. By Monday, slightly drier air moves in, trimming rain chances a bit heading into next week — though the NWS notes storms will still pop up each afternoon.
