While most other states are still reeling from the Groundhog Storm that hit early this month and from more snowstorms predicted to hit this winter, Florida is going on comfortably with its great weather.
Much of Florida is humid subtropical – with the rainy season running from June through September and with dry season running from October to May. This means that Florida doesn’t experience the bitterly cold winters and brutal snowstorms usually suffered by people in states in the northern part of the country.
The year-round moderate temperatures across Florida are mostly the result of the state’s nearness to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Easterly winds carry the warmth of the Gulf Stream as they move across the Florida peninsula.
Let’s look at the mean temperatures of major Florida cities:
Temperatures in Tampa, Florida range from a mean of 60 degrees F in January to about 82 in August and then slowly fall back over September through November to 62 degrees in December.
In Miami, which is nearer the Gulf Stream, mean temperatures range from 67 in January to 84 in August and then slowly fall back from 82 in September to 68 in December.
Orlando’s mean temperatures range from 60 degrees in January to 84 in August then drop to 81 in September and reach 62 in December.
In Tampa, you can enjoy these outdoor activities year-round:
- Canoeing or boating in the Hillsborough River State Park, which rents out canoes
- Biking, hiking and walking in low-traffic neighborhoods, designated paved paths and bike trails. More than 20 miles of these trails and lanes are available. Nearly five miles of the world’s longest continuous sidewalk are along Bayshore Boulevard in Tampa’s territory.
- Fishing in Tampa’s numerous lakes
- Swimming or frolicking in the beach or a pool. There are four public beaches and 14 public swimming pools in the city. You can also enjoy the waters of Adventure Island, a 30-acre water park.
- Golfing in three public golf courses within the city. You can also explore some of the more than 45 golf courses in the Tampa Bay area.
- Playing tennis in one of Tampa’s 14 lighted tennis courts. The Parks and Recreation Department also offers lessons for adults and children.
- Exploring Tampa’s attractions:
- Florida Aquarium
- Busch Gardens
- Straz Center for the Performing Arts
- Lowry Park Zoo
- Tampa Bay History Center
- Tampa Museum of Art
You can also enjoy Tampa’s fairs and events:
- Gasparilla Arts Festival, held every February
- Florida State Fair, held annually, this year’s schedule is February 10-21
- Independence Day
- McDill Airfest, held annually
- Sant Yago Knight Parade, held every February
Enjoy Tampa’s good weather, attractions and opportunities. Contact Tampa4U.com for help in finding the best affordable homes in Tampa.