Another heat advisory is in effect for Sarasota and Manatee counties Thursday, with the heat index expected to reach about 106 degrees. The actual high temperature is forecast at 92, but the humidity is doing the heavy lifting. Scattered storms are possible with a 40% chance, but they are expected to stay mostly inland, which means coastal communities from Venice to Anna Maria might not catch the cooling rain.
Relief is coming in stages. Friday brings a heat index of 101, and weekend storm chances continue as the region slowly transitions back to more typical late-August conditions. Scattered showers and storms are possible through next Wednesday. There are no tropical systems being tracked near Florida right now, which is always a relief during peak hurricane season. Boaters can expect northwest winds at 7 to 12 mph with seas staying under 2 feet, making for decent conditions on the water.
For anyone planning outdoor activities, early mornings and late evenings are your best windows. Midday heat will be intense, so stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade. What is your strategy for beating the heat this week? Let us know in the comments.
