We know the question on your mind, TBAY residents — when’s it going to get warmer again? Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expectin our area for March, April, and May.
While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what spring will bring.
Reminder: The first day of spring is Tuesday, March 19.
Temperature
This spring’s heat is projected to be about average — the Tampa Bay area has a 50-50% chance of temperatures being near normal. Sounds like an outdoor work opportunity.
Precipitation
But check the weather forecast before taking your laptop outside. TBAY has a 50-60% chanceof seeing higher than average precipitation this spring. There’s still plenty of indoor fun on offer for the whole fam.
Drought
Drought conditions are expected to improve in parts of TBAY this season, notably in Pinellas County. Here’s a quick reminder — watering restrictions are still in place.
It looks like there’s a 50-50 chance of having normal temperatures this spring.
Tampa typically sees average highs of 77.8º in March, with lows averaging 59.3º. The month also has the third-lowest amount of rainfall on average each year, with just 2.52 inches. This year, March is expected to begin with cloudy days, before brighter skies arrive for the latter half.
April
The fourth month of the year is (almost) equally as dry, with 2.55 average inches of rainfall. Temperatures will start to climb, with highs of 83º joined by lows of 64.8º. A few thunderstorms could arrive toward the end of the month.
May
May’s average temperature of 79.5º is the last time the average typically drops below 80º until October, with highs of 88.3º and lows of 70.6º. It is typically the last month without considerable rainfall before the summer months.
“HERS” | Wednesday, Feb. 28 | 7:30 p.m. | Palladium Theater, 253 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg | $15-$40 | Molly Carr and Anna Petrova reimagine centuries of music composed, arranged, and performed by women.
“Tampa News Force Live!” | Wednesday, Feb. 28 | 8 p.m. | Tampa Fringe Theatre, 1624 E. 7th Ave. #228, Tampa | $5 | The monthly comedy show brings together founding member Josh Santos and special guests.
Thursday, Feb. 29
Leap Day | Thursday, Feb. 29 | 4-11:59 p.m. | MacDinton’s Irish Pub, 405 S. Howard Ave., Tampa | Price of purchase | Make the most of the extra day with dancing + drink deals in SoHo.
OE Wedding Showcase | Thursday, Feb. 29 | 6:30-9 p.m. | Oxford Exchange, 420 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa | Free with RSVP | Get inspiration for your big day with experienced wedding vendors in beautiful surroundings.
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Buffalo Sabres | Thursday, Feb. 29 | 7 p.m. | Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa | $42+ | Leap out of your seat + show your support for the Bolts in this divisional clash.
Friday, March 1
Tampa Bay Times Boat Show | Friday, March 1-Sunday, March 3 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Florida State Fair, 4800 US 301 N., Tampa | Free | Check out inventory from all corners of the boating world, including bigger purchasing options like yachts, kayaks, and other nautical vessels.
The Florida Antiquarian Book Fair | Friday, March 1-Sunday, March 3 | Times vary | The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N., St. Petersburg | $1-$10 | Book-lovers unite to flick through pages brought to the Burg by vendors from across the country.
ZooTampa’s newest exhibit — Stingray Shores — is now open. The interactive experience offers the chance to join the creatures as they glide through 30,000 gallons of water. The exhibit is part of the zoo’s $125 million expansion plans. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)
Eat
An iconic Tampa restaurant is returning. Silver Ring Cafe first opened in Ybor City back in 1947 and quickly became renowned for its Cuban sandwiches. The restaurant’s doors closed in 2008, but has reopened in Westshore Plaza’s food court. (Tampa Bay Times)
History
Pirate Water Taxi and the Tampa Bay History Center are teaming up to offer history cruises along the Hillsborough River. The one-hour tour will give insight into the area’s rich history, and provide a peaceful education experience in tranquil surroundings. Book now.
Concert
21 Savage is coming to Tampa. The rapper will take the stage at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre on Friday, June 14 on his “American Dream Tour.” Presale begins tomorrow, with the general sale starting on Friday, March 1.
Coming Soon
A new boutique is opening in Water Street Tampa this spring. Tidewater Home & Gift will be located in Asher at 1040 Water St., offering furnishings, design options, and a range of meaningful touches for your home. An official opening date has not yet been announced.
Try This
The Tampa Convention Center is hosting the World Oddities Expo for the first time ever this weekend. The Saturday, March 2 event features a host of unconventional vendors, workshops, and entertainment. The event runs from 12 to 8 p.m. and tickets are on sale. (That’s So Tampa)
Festival
Bern’s Winefest returns later this spring. The 27th annual event runs April 13-21 and sees Bern’s Steak House, Haven, and the Epicurean Hotel offer a range of tastings, dinners, and culinary experiences. Tickets go on sale this Saturday, March 2.
Sports
Lavonte David discusses his Bucs future. Get game coverage, analysis, insights, interviews and more from local experts of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Finance
Consolidate debt to lower your payments. Pay off credit cards, medical debt, and more. Calculate monthly payments.*
The University of South Florida men’s basketball team is exploring uncharted territory in a historic season. Here’s a quick catch-up on their season thus far:
For the first time ever, the Bulls are now ranked No. 25 in the nation on the AP Poll and on the Coaches Poll.
The ranking comes on the back of 13 straight victories, with just one loss in the last 20 games.
With March Madness right around the corner, the historic run has ignited campus. The Yuengling Center sold out for the second game in a row last weekend — another first for the program.
An appearance at the tournament would be the program’s fourth in its history, having previously made it in 1990, 1992, and 2012. The furthest the team has progressed is the Round of 32.
There’s only one home game left this season, and recent history suggests it will be a sell-out. Get tickets while you can.
The Buy
The Buy 2.28.24 (Affiliate + Six & Main)
Your must-have Stanley Quencher accessory (yes, water bottle accessories are a thing). There are straw cover caps, personalized name plates, water bottle carrier bags, and even a snack bowl that fits around your Stanley.
We’re looking for the best coffee shops in the Tampa Bay area. If you’ve got a favorite cup of joe, an Instagrammable spot, or somewhere with dreamy latte art, let us know.
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