'Summery' Weather Returns to Clearwater

By Associate Regional Editor Sherri Lonon

As northern states prepare for a heat wave that could bring a heat index around 100, Clearwater residents are likely to enjoy a run-of-the-mill summer week.

That means grab the sunblock and be sure to have an umbrella handy – just in case, according to forecasters at the National Weather Service’s Ruskin office.

“(It should be) nice and summery here in Florida,” said Robert Garcia, a meteorologist with the weather service.

This comes after a start of the month with steadier-than-normal storms courtesy of several disturbances, including the remnants of Tropical Storm Chantal.

With no major storms threatening, Tampa Bay residents can expect highs to reach the low 90s most of the week with rain chances around 30-60 percent. Monday, July 15, brings the biggest chance of rain, but afternoon showers are possible throughout the week, Garcia said.

Forecasters expect most storms to move through after 2 p.m. and before 8 p.m.

Garcia pointed out that the Tampa Bay area's typical summertime storms do have a beneficial side.

“Our thunderstorms help us cool down during the day.”

Get a complete forecast for the Clearwater area by visiting the National Weather Service online.