The Suncoast is trading rain boots for sunglasses this week, with plenty of sunshine Thursday and Friday, highs in the mid-80s, and comfortable evenings near 70. A cold front will ease temperatures down into the weekend, with highs near 83 Saturday and around 81 Sunday, dropping into the upper 70s by Veterans Day. Rain chances stay minimal all week, which makes this one of the better outdoor stretches we’ve had in a while.
The rivers, though, are still catching up. Flood warnings remain in effect for the Alafia River at Lithia, the Manatee River near Myakka Head, the Peace River at Zolfo Springs and Arcadia, and Horse Creek near Arcadia. The Peace River at Arcadia is the top concern, with moderate flooding happening now and major flooding forecast as it crests near 16.5 feet Thursday evening. Homes in River Acres could be affected, so residents there should stay close to county guidance.
Out in the tropics, a disturbance has a 30% chance of development in two days and 50% in seven, but the incoming cold front should push it east, away from Florida. If your week includes a boat, a trail, or a beach chair, this is the forecast you wanted. Just remember the one rule that always applies: never drive through a flooded roadway. What are your outdoor plans for this sunny stretch?
