The National Weather Service in Melbourne has issued a forecast that Orlando residents may want to pay close attention to, as scattered showers and storms are expected to develop late in the afternoon and could affect travel conditions. According to the latest aviation forecast of the National Weather Service, "VFR conditions expected to continue through this morning, with scattered to potentially numerous showers and storms developing into the afternoon," which might lead to temporary IFR/MVFR conditions, especially west of the I-95 corridor.
For those planning to be out and about today, it's not just the rain you’ll have to deal with—the heat is also a factor, the Western extent of a surface ridge axis means that conditions will remain humid with high temperatures reaching the low to mid-90s, and peak heat index values could soar between 102-106 degrees creating not just a discomfort but a legitimate health risk the National Weather Service warns of a "Moderate to Major Heat Risk" with these conditions. Boaters should also take notice, as seas are expected to increase up to 3 feet by the end of the week, with a summertime pattern of high shower and storm chances persevering through the weekend.
Looking ahead to the rest of the week, it seems there will be little reprieve from the pattern of afternoon showers and storms, as National Weather Service forecast discussions indicate a persistent mix of high temperatures and storm activity. "Mid-level troughing and an accompanying surface boundary sink across the southeast U.S., washing out as it approaches north Florida on Friday." which continues to promote that west-to-southwest flow keeping up the rain chances and heat for Orlando through Friday.
Over the weekend, winds are set to become light and variable with a southerly drift by Sunday—a sure sign that Orlando's standard summer weather isn't going anywhere soon, high afternoon temperatures in the low to mid-90s with peak heat index values staying up in the 103-107 degree range are a particular concern for those spending extended time outdoors the weather service's prediction, is for high coverage of showers and lightning storms to continue into next week, echoing Florida's familiar rhythm of rain and warmth.
