ORLANDO, Fla. – The biggest weather story for Central Florida this week is the high heat.
According to News 6 meteorologist Julie Broughton, the high temperature on Monday in Orlando is forecast to reach 95 degree, above the typical high of 91 for early June.
By the afternoon, it’s expected to feel more like the low 100s, with heat index values reaching as high as 102 across spots like Ocala and Sanford.
If you’re sensitive to heat or have to spend extended time outdoors, be sure to take plenty of breaks and drink lots of water.
“If you were outside this weekend, you know by the afternoon hours it was feeling like the low 100s,” Broughton said.
Saharan dust continues to impact air quality
Saharan dust continues to linger over Central Florida, though it has started to thin out compared to earlier days.
The dust, however, continues to affect air quality across the region.
Most of central Florida is in the moderate range for air quality, and those with asthma or other respiratory issues should take caution when spending time outside.
The dust is not unique to Florida, as much of the Southeast is also experiencing similar impacts.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve, but some effects linger, especially for those especially sensitive to changes in air quality.
Quiet tropics and a bump in rain chances
The second week of hurricane season is off to a quiet start for Central Florida.
While one tropical wave is present in the central Atlantic, no further development is currently expected over the next several days.
As for rain in the Orlando area, the chance increases as we move further into the week.
Forecast models show a 40% chance by Monday afternoon, rising to 50% on Tuesday and 60% by Wednesday.
Most storms this week are expected to be sea-breeze driven, whjich is typical for this time of year.
As rain chances climb, slightly cooler highs are likely, with overnight lows in the mid-70s.
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