Excessive Heat Warning Goes Up In Tampa Bay Area

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay area residents and visitors are being warned to take cover from the heat as drier air in the atmosphere is expected to reduce rain chances over the next few days while enabling temperatures to skyrocket. Forecasters at the National Weather Service say temperatures across the region could soar into the mid-90s during the afternoon hours on Tuesday and Wednesday. Excessive heat, however, may remain a concern through Friday.

“These temperatures combined with high humidity levels will support heat indices in the 100- to 105-degree range,” forecasters wrote in Tuesday’s Hazardous Weather Outlook report. “If you work outdoors today, drink plenty of water and try to stay in the shade and take frequent breaks if possible.”

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Anticipated rain chances across the region have all but dried up for Tuesday, but forecasters say an isolated storm isn’t out of the question in some parts of the region.

Drier conditions are also expected heading into Wednesday when forecasters say the high should climb into the low to mid-90s yet again. Mostly sunny conditions are expected in the daytime hours. Chances for isolated storms move back into the picture during the overnight hours Wednesday.

Forecasters anticipate daily storms will return on Thursday, bringing the high temperatures down just a bit. There’s a 30 percent chance for scattered thunderstorms on Thursday during both the daytime and evening hours. Friday is expected to bring similar conditions. Highs both days are forecast in the low 90s with overnight lows near 80 degrees.

While stronger rain chances return on Thursday, forecasters warn excessive heat may still be a problem. "Hot and muggy conditions will continue over the region," the service wrote in Tuesday's report. "Temperatures climbing into the lower and middle 90s each combined with high humidity levels will continue to support heat indices in the 100 to 105 degree range each afternoon through Friday."

Daily storms are expected through the upcoming weekend with the strongest chance for rain expected on Sunday.

For an extended forecast in your neighborhood, visit your local Patch's homepage.

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