ORLANDO, Fla. – Central Florida’s dangerous heat wave isn’t going anywhere.
The fourth heat advisory of the week was issued Friday, as heat index values will exceed 108 degrees. While a few storms are possible, don’t expect them to bring much of a cool down.
FRIDAY
Temperatures will climb into the mid to upper 90s this afternoon, with oppressive humidity making it feel even hotter. A Heat Advisory is in effect for all of East Central Florida from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
There will still be a chance for some afternoon and evening showers and storms, with rain chances around 30 to 50 percent. Most storms should develop as sea breezes collide inland before activity fades around sunset.
A few storms could become strong, producing frequent lightning, wind gusts up to 50 mph, and heavy rainfall.
WEEKEND
The overall weather pattern changes very little through Saturday and Sunday. High pressure and a layer of Saharan dust will help limit afternoon storm coverage, with rain chances generally between 20 and 40 percent Saturday and even lower for many areas Sunday.
That means the heat will once again take center stage. Coastal highs will generally reach the low to mid 90s, while inland communities climb into the mid to upper 90s. Heat index values could again reach 108 to 112 degrees, and additional Heat Advisories are likely.
NEXT WEEK
The heat wave is expected to continue into at least the first half of next week. Afternoon highs will remain in the mid to upper 90s, with warm and muggy nights offering little relief.
Rain chances should stay below normal through early next week before a front sagging south across the eastern U.S. could help increase storm chances around Tuesday or Wednesday.