Tampa, Florida, is in for a stormy Father’s Day weekend, with strong thunderstorms and extreme heat expected to impact residents and travelers. Starting Saturday, June 14, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms will create hazardous driving conditions, particularly on major routes like Interstate 275 and Dale Mabry Highway.
As the weekend progresses, high temperatures and heat index values could pose additional risks, making it crucial for residents to stay prepared.
What to Expect: Thunderstorms and Hazardous Driving
The National Weather Service has predicted that thunderstorms will begin developing by Saturday afternoon, around 2 p.m. With heavy rainfall expected, visibility will be significantly reduced, especially for drivers on key routes like Interstate 275 and Dale Mabry Highway.
Tampa residents are advised to stay vigilant and plan their travel carefully, avoiding the heaviest rain periods to reduce the risk of accidents and delays.
Heat Risk and Safety Tips
In addition to thunderstorms, heat will be a significant concern this weekend. Temperatures on Saturday are forecast to hit a high of 92°F, but the heat index will make it feel much hotter—around 104°F. Such high heat can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Authorities recommend limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours (usually between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.), staying well-hydrated, and checking on vulnerable family members and neighbors, especially the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.
Father’s Day Plans and Weekend Weather
Thunderstorms are expected to continue on Sunday, June 15, which could affect outdoor Father’s Day plans. Residents may need to make adjustments, such as moving celebrations indoors or having backup plans in case of heavy rain.
The stormy weather is expected to persist into the start of next week, with scattered thunderstorms continuing on Monday, June 16, and Tuesday, June 17.
Stay Updated and Plan Ahead
It’s important for Tampa residents to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and alerts. Make sure to check local news and weather apps regularly throughout the weekend. If you plan to travel, ensure your mobile devices are fully charged and consider alternative travel arrangements or timings to avoid the peak storm hours.
What’s Next: Weather Outlook for Tampa
The stormy conditions won’t subside quickly, as showers and thunderstorms will continue through the early part of next week, potentially affecting daily activities. However, temperatures will remain high, with little relief from the intense heat.
Five-Day Forecast for Tampa, FL:
- Saturday (June 14): Afternoon thunderstorms likely, high near 92°F, heat index 104°F.
- Sunday (June 15): Thunderstorms likely, high around 92°F.
- Monday (June 16): Scattered thunderstorms, high near 92°F.
- Tuesday (June 17): Isolated thunderstorms, becoming likely, high 93°F.
- Wednesday (June 18): Thunderstorms likely, high around 94°F.
