It may be known as the Sunshine State, but Tampa residents are waking up to unexpectedly chilly temperatures as an Arctic air mass sweeps across the Southeast.
This morning, temperatures dropped to a brisk 44°F (7°C), a stark contrast to the usual warmth Florida experiences in February. The last time Tampa saw a cold snap this strong so late in the winter was years ago, making this an event locals won’t soon forget.
While clear skies are keeping conditions dry, the cold air will stick around for at least another 24 to 48 hours before Tampa sees a return to its typical warmth.
How Cold Will It Get in Tampa?
- Friday, February 21: Sunny but cool. Despite clear skies, highs will only reach 66°F (19°C), well below the February average. Overnight, expect a chilly 44°F (7°C).
- Saturday, February 22: The warm-up begins, but slowly. Temperatures will rise to 71°F (21°C), but it will still feel cool, especially in the morning. Overnight lows will be 54°F (12°C).
- Sunday, February 23: Mostly cloudy, with daytime temperatures climbing to 74°F (23°C), offering relief from the chill. Overnight, it remains slightly warmer at 55°F (13°C).
- Monday, February 24: Some rain possible in the morning, then mostly cloudy. Highs will reach 72°F (22°C), with lows around 52°F (11°C).
- Tuesday, February 25: A return to normal Florida warmth. Highs near 75°F (24°C), with overnight temperatures at 53°F (12°C).
- Wednesday, February 26: Sunshine and pleasant conditions, with highs of 77°F (25°C) and lows of 57°F (14°C).
- Thursday, February 27: A mix of clouds and sun, with a high of 76°F (24°C) and a low of 55°F (13°C).
Why Is Tampa Experiencing This Cold Snap?
This unusual drop in temperatures is part of a massive Arctic outbreak affecting much of the United States. Over 230 million Americans are feeling the effects of this bitter cold, which has already shattered records across the Midwest, Deep South, and even parts of Florida.
The cause? A large pocket of Arctic air has pushed southward, dragging freezing temperatures into places that rarely see them.
In some areas, like Montana and Minnesota, wind chills plunged as low as -50°F (-45°C). Even places as far south as Texas have experienced freezing temperatures. While Tampa is nowhere near those extreme levels, the city’s temperatures have still fallen well below normal for this time of year.
How to Stay Safe During This Cold Snap
- Layer up. Even in Florida, temperatures in the 40s can feel colder than expected, especially with the added wind.
- Bring pets indoors. If you’re feeling the chill, your furry friends are, too. Make sure they have a warm place to stay.
- Check on elderly neighbors. Many Floridians aren’t used to cold weather, so ensure that vulnerable residents have enough warmth.
- Watch for morning frost. While Tampa won’t see ice or snow, frost could develop in low-lying areas, creating slippery conditions early in the morning.
When Will the Warmth Return?
The good news is that this cold snap is short-lived. While Friday and Saturday will remain chilly, temperatures will rise into the 70s by Sunday and continue climbing throughout the week.
By next Wednesday, highs will return to the upper 70s, meaning that Tampa will once again feel like the warm and sunny city residents are used to.
