Monthly Weather Patterns
With the Hillsborough River flowing through downtown and bays providing a direct path to the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa is perfectly situated for cruise ships to set sail year-round from its port. This vibrant city in West Central Florida experiences warm weather, making it an attractive destination for visitors. Known as the easternmost city in the area referred to as Tampa Bay, its overall average high temperature is 82 degrees Fahrenheit with an average low of 63 degrees Fahrenheit.
On average, Tampa’s warmest month is July, while January is the coolest month, with overnight freezing temperatures being a possibility. Moreover, maximum average rainfall usually occurs in August, as afternoon thunderstorms make almost daily appearances. The highest temperature ever recorded in Tampa was a sweltering 99 degrees Fahrenheit in 1985, whereas the lowest recorded temperature was a frigid 18 degrees Fahrenheit in 1962.
Unpredictable storms can strike at any time during the Atlantic Hurricane season, which runs from June through November; however, August and September tend to be the most active months.
What to Pack
If you’re visiting Tampa in the summertime, it’s advisable to dress coolly and avoid the harsh mid-day sun. While the Florida Aquarium is an excellent spot to escape the heat, visiting Busch Gardens requires sunscreen and a hat, as you will be outside for extended periods.
When planning your visit, pack appropriately for the season: shorts are ideal for summer, but don’t forget an umbrella for rain emergencies. In the winter, slacks are more suitable, and bringing a sweater and jacket is essential in case the evenings turn chilly.
Average Temperatures and Rainfall
If you’re seeking more specific weather information, the following outlines the average temperatures and rainfall for Tampa:
- January
- Average High: 70 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 52 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 2.27 inches
- February
- Average High: 72 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 54 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 2.67 inches
- March
- Average High: 76 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 58 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 2.84 inches
- April
- Average High: 81 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 62 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 1.80 inches
- May
- Average High: 86 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 71 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 6.33 inches
- June
- Average High: 86 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 69 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 2.85 inches
- July
- Average High: 90 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 75 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 6.49 inches
- August
- Average High: 90 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 75 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 7.60 inches
- September
- Average High: 89 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 74 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 6.54 inches
- October
- Average High: 84 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 68 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 2.29 inches
- November
- Average High: 78 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 61 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 4.62 inches
- December
- Average High: 72 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 55 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Precipitation: 2.30 inches
For those planning a vacation in Florida, it’s essential to consider the state’s diverse weather patterns and how they may affect your travel plans.
