Honestly, if you've lived in Pinellas County for any length of time, you know the "Sunshine City" nickname is usually a safe bet. But this week? It's been a weird one. We've had residents pulling winter coats out of storage and cold weather shelters opening their doors across Tampa Bay because "feels like" temperatures dropped into the 30s just a couple of days ago.
It’s chilly. Really chilly.
Right now, the st petersburg weather forecast shows we are sitting at a cool 53°F as of Saturday morning, January 17, 2026. If you’re heading out to the Saturday Morning Market or just grabbing a coffee on Central, you’ll notice an easterly wind at about 9 mph. It’s definitely not beach weather, but it's that crisp, "dry" Florida cold that makes you want to sit by an outdoor fire pit with a thick hoodie.
The Immediate Outlook: Sun, Then a Wet Sunday
Most people assume Florida winters are just a milder version of summer. That’s a mistake. While today, Saturday, is looking gorgeous with a high of 67°F and plenty of sun, don't let that fool you into thinking the rest of the weekend is a wash.
👉 See also: The Gospel of Matthew: What Most People Get Wrong About the First Book of the New Testament
Actually, it sort of is a wash.
Tomorrow, Sunday, January 18, things take a sharp turn. We’re looking at a 75% chance of light rain during the day. The wind is going to kick up too, shifting to the northwest at a brisk 24 mph. If you have outdoor plans for Sunday, you might want to move them to Monday.
Monday, January 19, brings back the sun, but it also brings a "cold front" reality check. The high is only expected to reach 55°F. For locals, that is basically the Arctic. For our friends visiting from Ohio or New York, it’s probably T-shirt weather. It's all about perspective, right?
✨ Don't miss: God Willing and the Creek Don't Rise: The True Story Behind the Phrase Most People Get Wrong
Breaking Down the 10-Day Trend
If you're trying to plan your life over the next week and a half, here is the vibe for the st petersburg weather forecast in 2026:
- Mid-week Milder Turn: By Tuesday and Wednesday (Jan 20-21), we start creeping back into the 60s. Wednesday night might get a bit soggy with a 40% chance of rain.
- The Heavy Rain Event: Thursday, January 22, looks like the wettest day on the horizon. We’re expecting heavy rain with a 75% chance of precipitation and a high of 65°F.
- The Reward: If you survive the rainy Thursday, Friday and next Saturday (Jan 23-24) look spectacular. We’re talking highs of 70°F and nothing but blue skies. That is the St. Pete we know and love.
The Humidity and UV Factor
Even in January, the humidity in St. Petersburg is a character in its own right. Today it’s around 69-75%, which keeps the air from feeling too biting, but by next Monday, the humidity drops to 45%. That’s when the air gets that "crackly" dry feel that's rare for us.
And don't forget the sun. The UV index is hitting a 4 today. Even if it’s 53°F outside, that Florida sun is still strong enough to give you a burn if you’re out on a boat or walking the Pier for three hours.
🔗 Read more: Kiko Japanese Restaurant Plantation: Why This Local Spot Still Wins the Sushi Game
Why the 2026 Winter Feels "Off"
According to the National Weather Service and the Old Farmer's Almanac, this January has been trending about 3 degrees below the historical average. We’ve seen more cold weather shelter activations this year than in the last couple of winters.
Basically, the jet stream is dipping a bit further south than usual, dragging that Canadian air straight down I-75. It’s why we’re seeing record lows like the 34°F we hit back in 1959—we aren't quite there yet, but 44°F on Monday morning is going to feel close enough.
What to Actually Do With This Information
If you're a local or a traveler trying to navigate the st petersburg weather forecast, here is the move:
- Layer up for Saturday: 67°F is "sweater over a shirt" weather. You'll want to shed the outer layer by 2:00 PM.
- Batten down for Sunday: That 24 mph wind is no joke. Secure your patio umbrellas and move any light potted plants.
- Plan for Thursday rain: This isn't a 10-minute afternoon sprinkle. With a 75% chance of heavy rain, it’s a good day for the Dali Museum or catching a movie at the Sundial.
- Watch the humidity jump: It hits 99% by next Monday (Jan 26). Your hair will know it before you do.
Stay dry on Sunday, and keep those hoodies handy for Monday morning's 44-degree wake-up call.