Storm Chances Rise In Tampa Bay Area

TAMPA, FL — The Tampa Bay area’s sunny streak might be coming to an end. The National Weather Service is warning of the increased potential for thunderstorms over the next few days. Dense fog is also likely to remain a concern in the early morning hours.

In its Tuesday Hazardous Weather Outlook report, the weather service warned of the potential for thunderstorms over the next three days. “Thunderstorms that develop will be capable of producing strong, gusty winds, locally heavy rains and frequent deadly lightning strikes,” the agency noted.

While Tuesday is expected to be rather sunny in the daytime hours with a high around 80 degrees, rain chances move into the picture in the overnight hours. There’s a 50 percent chance of storms forecast. Temperatures should drop into the mid- to upper 60s in the overnight hours.

Wednesday could kick off with a shower or two, forecasters say. Rain chances are expected to clear out in the daytime hours Wednesday when the high should reach the upper 70s. Thunderstorm potential, however, creeps back in during the overnight hours when the low should once again fall into the mid-60s.

Fog is also likely to be a concern in the morning hours Wednesday in some parts of the region. Forecasters warn that some areas may witness visibility reduced to less than a quarter-mile. Motorists are advised to exercise caution when traveling in dense fog conditions.

Thursday could be a washout in the morning hours with strong rain chances forecast. The day’s high is expected to only reach the mid-70s. Storms, however, are expected to clear out heading into the afternoon hours.

Folks with big outdoor plans for the upcoming weekend may be able to breathe a sigh of relief. The weather service is forecasting a streak of sunny days starting on Friday when the day’s high should only reach the low 70s. Temperatures are expected warm a bit on Saturday and Sunday with sunshine dominating the day time forecast.

For an extended look at the forecast for your neighborhood, visit your local Patch’s homepage.

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