ORLANDO, Fla. – We are continuing to keep a close eye on an area of potential tropical development in the Gulf.
Right now, the National Hurricane Center is highlighting a 20% chance of tropical development over the next seven days. But regardless of whether the system becomes more organized, our forecast for Central Florida remains essentially the same, tracking periods of tropical downpour through early next week.
The biggest takeaway is that the weekend will not be a washout. While scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected both days, Saturday currently looks like the better day for outdoor plans, before rain chances climb Sunday.
For today, expect a mix of sun and clouds with a high near 93 degrees. Showers and thunderstorms will begin developing around lunchtime as the east and west coast sea breezes move inland. The greatest coverage will be across the interior, where rain chances reach 70%. Coastal locations will see rain chances closer to 40-50%.
Some storms could become strong this afternoon, producing frequent lightning, wind gusts up to 55 mph, torrential rainfall, and even small hail. Slow-moving storms may drop 1 to 3 inches of rain, with isolated higher amounts that could lead to localized street flooding. Showers today will eventually drift to the west, before winding down around sunset.
The active weather pattern continues through early next week as tropical moisture increases. Rain chances will remain in the 60% to 70% range through Monday, with scattered to numerous afternoon and evening storms each day. Temperatures will stay near normal, with highs in the lower 90s and heat index values climbing into the 100 to 107 degree range, so be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks if you’re spending time outdoors.
If you’re heading to the beach today, keep in mind a moderate rip current risk continues. Swim near a lifeguard and never enter the water alone.