NWS update gives 70 percent chance of tropical development in Gulf

Rain chances increase for weekend, heavy rain expected Sunday, Monday

All eyes remain on the tropics heading into the weekend.

An area of low pressure is poised to develop just north of the Yucatan Peninsula. In anticipation of that, the National Hurricane Center has given the area a 70 percent chance of gaining tropical characteristics within the next 48 hours.

[WEATHER: Extended forecast | Radar | Warnings | Pinpoint Weather Zones | DOWNLOAD: Pinpoint, Hurricane apps | SHARE: Weather pictures| MORE:Hurricane info | Get Results for Hurricane Season ]

"Upper level winds across the southeast U.S. will generate a deep south-southwest flow that will transport even higher moisture into the area by early next week," said News 6 meteorologist Candace Campos. "Models continue to show the area of low pressure north of the Yucatan Monday then moving northeast, tracking toward Central Florida Monday night and into Tuesday. Some degree of shear will impact the system, inhibiting rapid development during this time. Unfortunately, models remain inconsistent with the intensity of the system."

Regardless of the track and intensity, the threat of a heavy rain event will be high for all of Central Florida. A threat for isolated tornadoes could come into play also by late Monday if an organized tropical cyclone wind field exists with the favored eastern side of the storm.

"We will closely monitor model guidance with this potential system and the impacts it might bring to the area during early next week," Campos said.

[DID YOU SEE THESE: Shaq gives 'Lyft' to customers | Video: Car runs over motorcyclists | Fisherman finds ATM at bottom of pond  | Family falls victim to "Swatting" call ]

Meanwhile, on Friday, more of the same summer setup will will continue. A weak ridge of high pressure will keep calm winds in place combined with the heating of the day will allow for slow-moving storms to develop across the inland areas.

Daytime highs through Saturday will hover around 90 degrees for most Central Florida neighborhoods.

"Rain chances will go up to 40 percent on Saturday, 60 percent on Sunday and 70 percent for Monday and Tuesday," News 6 meteorologist Troy Bridges said.

Central Floridians, should remained informed and prepared this hurricane season. Stay tuned to News 6 and check into ClickOrlando.com. And when you are on the go, have the latest updates on your phone with our Pinpoint Hurricane App &  Pinpoint Weather app for up the minute details. Just search WKMG in the app store.


About the Authors

Candace Campos joined the News 6 weather team in 2015.

Recommended Videos