TAMPA, Fla — Grab a cold drink and rejoice. The weekend is finally here.
Following a very dry and pleasant week, more sunshine is in store for both Saturday and Sunday. First, we have to get through a few afternoon showers Friday.
A closed low off the Florida coastline continues to push east, bringing in more moisture overhead. That extra moisture will support a few showers Friday afternoon and evening, and you may notice the uptick in humidity. That stickier air stays around Saturday and Sunday, but there will be some slight changes in the forecast compared to how we wrapped up the work week.
That pesky low pressure system moves north this weekend and opens the door for high pressure to set up shop, and a bit of dry air moves back into the western part of the state.
Slather on the sunscreen and grab those ice cold waters because this setup leads to lower rain chances, mostly sunny skies, and temperatures climbing to near 90 each afternoon. What an ideal May weekend in Florida.
Rain chances aren't completely zilch, however. That 10 percent chance is in the forecast for a reason! An isolated shower or storm can't be ruled out, but most of the area will be bone dry both Saturday and Sunday. If you get caught in that spotty shower, it will not last for long and shouldn't put a damper on those outdoor activities.
With this forecast, you will not need to postpone those beach or boating plans. In fact, marine conditions have calmed down significantly compared to earlier this week. This weekend, winds out on the Gulf will remain light out of the north around 5 to 10 knots with seas at two feet or less. It will look smooth and glassy out there on the Bay, and water temperatures are at 80 degrees. Yacht party, anyone?
For those less inclined to party on the water, there will be plenty of things to do around Tampa Bay this weekend; and hopefully you can get outside and have some fun. Heading to the Tampa Bay Lightning watch party at Armature Works? The temperature will be around 82 degrees around the 7 p.m. puck drop time with skies remaining mostly clear.
Enjoy your weekend, and feel free to share your pictures with us! We would love to see you and your family enjoying the wonderful weather!