ORLANDO, Fla. – It’s another typical summer day across Central Florida, with scattered afternoon storms developing after highs reach the low to mid 90s.
But later this week, the pattern shifts as fewer storms allow temperatures to climb and the risk for dangerous heat increases.
MONDAY
Storms will once again develop this afternoon as the east and west coast sea breezes collide over the peninsula. The greatest chance for rain, around 60 to 70 percent, will be near and south of Seminole County.
Like any typical summer day, a few storms could become strong enough to produce frequent lightning, wind gusts between 45 and 55 mph, and torrential downpours. Because storms will move slowly, some neighborhoods could quickly pick up enough rain to cause minor flooding in low-lying or poor drainage areas.
High temperatures today will climb into the low to mid 90s before storms develop, with warm and muggy conditions continuing tonight.
WEEK OUTLOOK
Beginning Tuesday, rain chances will gradually trend lower as another plume of Saharan dust moves into the region. By Wednesday, only isolated showers and storms are expected, and Thursday could end up being mostly dry for many communities (20-30%).
As the rain becomes less widespread, the heat will become the bigger concern. High pressure building over the Southeast will allow temperatures to climb into the mid and upper 90s across parts of the interior by the second half of the week.
With the hotter temperatures and Florida humidity, heat index values could approach or even exceed 108 degrees in some locations later this week. That means Heat Advisories may need to be issued.
WEEKEND
Rain chances are expected to gradually increase again by next weekend, but there is still some uncertainty on exactly when the deeper moisture returns.