A Hint of Autumn for the Suncoast? Sort of.

Key Information

• Humidity decreases slightly this weekend.
• Inland lows in the upper 60s; beaches in the low 70s.
• Storms mainly impacting inland areas tonight.
• Weekend weather includes more sunshine and reduced storm chances (30% inland, 20% coast).
• Next week features similar conditions with increased moisture midweek.
• Tropical wave presents a low chance of development near Florida.

No, we’re not breaking out hoodies just yet, but you’ll feel it. Humidity takes a tiny dip this weekend. Mornings slide into the upper 60s inland, low 70s at the beaches, with breezes that make it feel less sticky. Call it the first subtle sip of Florida fall.

Tonight: inland rumbles, coast clears faster

Storm chances hang on mainly inland east of I-75 tonight; Hardee and DeSoto can still hear some late-night thunder. Along the Sarasota & Manatee coasts, storms fade quicker, leaving more clouds than rain. Lows hover near the low to mid-70s with a light northeast breeze.

Weekend: more sun, fewer storms

Saturday and Sunday bring more blue sky than boomers. Storm chances run 30% inland and 20% at the coast, making the beach the best spot. Highs still push into the upper 80s, but the drier air and steady northeast breeze provide a fresh, easy vibe.

Next week: same sunshine, storm sprinkles

The pattern holds with isolated inland PM storms, while the coast remains mostly dry. Highs hover around 89–90°, with lows in the low 70s. By midweek, moisture edges back in, resulting in increased storm coverage, especially east of I-75.

Boating forecast for Friday

Northeast winds blow at 10–15 knots, with seas at 2–3 feet and only a slim storm risk along the coast. Gulf waters appear inviting, but inland waters may become choppy due to that breeze. Morning runs are smoothest, but be cautious of potential afternoon storms.

Tropics: a wave to watch

A tropical wave is rolling off Africa’s coast, but it’s a long, long way from us. Odds of development are near zero in the next 2 days and 30% over 7 days. Translation: nothing near Florida anytime soon. We’ll monitor it, but you don’t need to.

Ric’s Bottom Line: Tonight stays stormier inland and drier along the beaches. This weekend? Expect sunshine, breezes, and perhaps a hint of fall in the morning air.