An intense early-season heatwave kicked off on Thursday across Tampa Bay, with temperatures soaring to 91 degrees in Tampa and reaching 95 in Plant City. The heat is set to climb even higher.

Thursday’s temperatures were high, but the lower humidity made it more tolerable. However, as the weekend rolls into the middle of next week, the humidity will begin to rise, ushering in more oppressive, summer-like conditions.

This weekend highs will range from the upper 80s along the beaches (cooled by the Gulf) to the mid 90s inland. Some record highs will be challenged.

The heat is due to an extreme early-season heat dome centered over South Texas. This will move east and be right on top of Florida early next week.

The peak of the heatwave is expected to occur on Monday and Tuesday. Although the record temperatures for those days are quite lofty, we are likely to approach, if not eclipse, those peaks.

The heat is only half the story. Humidity will increase and that means feels like temps will be 100-105 starting this weekend through the middle of next week.

On the above graphic, you can see that the heat index drops significantly late next week. That is due to a cool front which is forecast to pass through. If that happens, much drier air will move in and also slightly cooler air as well. That should drop feels like temperatures by 15-20 degrees by Friday, providing some short-term relief.