Tampa, Florida – Tampa residents should prepare for a series of intense thunderstorms as a wave of summer storms targets the region just in time for the holiday weekend. A “summer weather alert” is in effect through at least Tuesday night, with widespread rain, thunder, and lightning expected to disrupt Fourth of July celebrations and local travel.
According to the National Weather Service, storms will roll in Thursday afternoon, bringing a 90% chance of rain and gusty winds between 6 and 9 mph.
Heavy downpours could drop up to an inch of rain across Hillsborough County, particularly near major roadways like I-275 and U.S. 92. Residents are urged to delay non-essential travel and stay indoors during afternoon storms, especially after 4 p.m. when storm intensity may peak.
Independence Day will bring more of the same: a 90% chance of thunderstorms with a heat index near 99°F. The wet pattern will continue into Friday night and Saturday, with concerns about lightning, localized flooding, and potential power outages throughout the region.
By Sunday night, storm coverage will decrease slightly, but showers will still be likely through Tuesday. South winds will shift to the west, creating choppy conditions near the coast and breezy conditions throughout the area.
5-Day Tampa Weather Outlook (July 4–July 9)
| Day | Weather | High Temperature | Chance of Storms/Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday (July 4) | Humid, breezy, 90% chance of storms | 90°F | 90% chance of storms |
| Saturday | Scattered afternoon thunderstorms | 89°F | 80% chance of rain |
| Sunday | Showers, gradually decreasing | 90°F | 50–80% chance of showers |
| Monday | Storms possible after 2 p.m. | 92°F | – |
| Tuesday | Rain likely after 2 p.m., evening storms | 92°F | Rain and storms likely |
Stay safe, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor weather updates closely through the weekend!
