NewsWUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)July 29, 2026Hillsborough
Florida Weather Alert: Extreme Heat, Severe Storms, and Flood Risks
Florida faces a week of dangerous heat indices up to 115 degrees, severe thunderstorm risks, and flash flooding potential across the Panhandle and North Florida. Residents are also warned of high rip current risks along the West Coast through Saturday.
Read the full story at WUSF (NPR Tampa Bay)Why It Matters
Residents in North and Central Florida face immediate risks to personal safety from heat exhaustion, wind damage, flash flooding, and dangerous ocean conditions through the weekend.
Key Facts
- Heat indices in North Florida are expected to reach up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Temperatures in North Florida may reach 100 degrees between 11 AM and 8 PM on Wednesday.
- The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Moderate Risk for flash flooding for the Panhandle and North Florida.
- Severe thunderstorms on Wednesday may produce wind gusts up to 60 mph.
- A high risk of rip currents is expected along Florida's West Coast from Wednesday through Saturday.
- Flash flood risks are expected to persist through the weekend, expanding into Central Florida.
- Seas could reach up to 6 feet, with choppy conditions in bays and inland waters.
- Saharan dust is expected to limit storm activity in South Florida starting Sunday.
- Public schools in Florida are scheduled to begin on August 10.