If you’ve got outdoor plans this weekend in Tampa Bay, consider this your official heat alert. Forecasters are warning of near-record temperatures soaring to 97°F, with zero chance of rain from Friday through Sunday. That means one thing: it’s going to be brutally hot, dangerously dry, and unrelenting.
By the time you finish your morning coffee, it could already feel like triple digits outside. Experts are urging residents and visitors to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and check in on those most vulnerable to the heat — especially children, the elderly, and pets.
Weekend Forecast at a Glance
SATURDAY, MAY 17
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High: 95°F
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Low: 73°F
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Conditions: Mostly sunny, hot, and dry
SUNDAY, MAY 18
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High: 95–97°F
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Low: 73°F
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Conditions: Partly to mostly sunny, oppressive heat
These temperatures are well above normal for May in the Tampa Bay area, where the average high is typically around 89°F. Factor in the humidity, and heat index values could feel like 100°F or more, especially during the early afternoon hours.
What Makes This Heat Dangerous
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No Cooling Rain: With 0% chance of rain, the usual late-afternoon showers won’t be around to break the heat.
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High UV Index: Extended sun exposure can lead to burns within 10–15 minutes.
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Heat Exhaustion Risk: Symptoms like dizziness, headache, rapid pulse, or fainting could strike faster than expected in this level of heat.
The combination of intense sun, high humidity, and dry ground means this heatwave is not just uncomfortable — it could be hazardous.
How to Stay Safe This Weekend
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Stay indoors during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
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Hydrate regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty
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Wear light-colored, breathable clothing
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Never leave pets or kids in parked cars, even for a minute
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Use SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours
Local hospitals and emergency services are on standby for heat-related calls, as experts anticipate a spike in cases of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunstroke.
Looking Ahead: Is There Relief Coming?
Unfortunately, relief isn’t in sight just yet. Early forecasts show the heat sticking around into early next week, with continued highs in the mid to upper 90s, and still no rain expected through at least Tuesday.
This extended dry stretch could also increase fire risk, especially in grassy or wooded areas. Residents are urged to follow local burn bans or advisories and report any signs of smoke or wildfire activity.
