Tampa Bay is set for a brief taste of autumn as brisk north-easterly winds push down humidity and bring clearer skies, with overnight temperatures expected to fall into the 60s over the weekend.
FOX 13 meteorologist Dave Osterberg said Thursday would remain hot and breezy, with a high of about 90°F and only a very isolated chance of a storm. The more noticeable change will come after sunset as drier air moves across the region.
Dry air brings cooler Tampa nights
Dew points are forecast to drop into the 50s, reducing the muggy feel that has dominated much of the recent weather in west-central Florida.
The National Weather Service forecast for Tampa also points to mostly sunny conditions on Friday, with temperatures in the upper 80s and north-easterly winds continuing. Overnight lows should reach the upper 60s in parts of the area, with similar conditions continuing into Saturday.
The break from the humidity is expected to be short-lived. Moisture is forecast to return by the middle of next week, bringing warmer nights and a greater chance of showers and thunderstorms.
While the Tampa Bay area enjoys relatively settled weather, a powerful coastal system is developing along the north-eastern United States.
The National Weather Service in Boston said southern New England could face prolonged rain, strong winds, rough seas and coastal flooding or beach erosion from Friday into the weekend. Forecasters warned that the precise strength and track of the system remained uncertain, although the greatest effects were expected along east-facing coastlines.
