ORLANDO, Fla. – Central Florida is expected to stay locked into a messy weather pattern for the next two days, bringing rounds of flooding rain and gusty winds.
Rain Threat
Rain chances stay elevated through Thursday, with scattered showers and a few storms redeveloping as the atmosphere remains very moist.
A stalled front with a low off the Florida east coast, will favors the heaviest rain near the coast.
Most areas will see manageable totals (1-3″), but higher amounts are possible for the east coast.
Latest forecast models are hinting at heavier bands of rain repeatedly move onshore, accumulating an additional 4-5″ of rainfall. This is why a Flood Watch remains in effect for coastal communities in Volusia and Brevard county until 10pm.
If flooding is a concern where you live, it’s a good idea to check nearby storm drains and clear out any debris. That simple step can help prevent water from backing up as heavier rain moves through.
Windy Weather
It’s not just the rain we will have to deal with, as strong northeast winds are expected to continue to ramp up through the afternoon.
Gusts are forecast to reach 30 to 40 mph inland and up to 45 mph along the coast. That’s strong enough to blow around loose items and could lead to a few isolated power outages.
A Wind Advisory is in effect for the majority of east Central Florida through midnight.
Winds won’t be quite as intense on Thursday, but it will stay breezy for several more days.
Dangerous Marine Conditions
All beach and boating activities will be dangerous through Thursday with large swells causing rough seas.
Along the beaches, breaking waves of 8 to 12 feet will continue to pound the shoreline, causing rip currents and minor beach erosion.
Boating conditions are just as rough, with strong northeast winds. Small craft advisory and gale warnings are in effect through Thursday.