The wet season isn't done with Orlando just yet. Locals are witnessing the groundswell of rain as the National Weather Service Melbourne, FL, forecasts continued heavy rainfall and flooding concerns through the end of the week. Particularly, according to a recent report, those residing along the St. Johns River are advised to brace for water levels that are set to approach moderate flood stage.
Weather patterns don't seem to be in any hurry to change. The region's relentless downpour is the result of a sprawling stationary front combined with moisture levels that are unusually high for this time of year. As a stationary boundary cuts across the Florida Peninsula, the folks from Sanford to New Smyrna Beach are already feeling the brunt, with accumulations ranging from half an inch to an inch of rainfall just this morning. Forecasters are predicting more rain, heavy at times, to persist, especially along the coast.
The National Weather Service issued a statement warning of "very efficient rainfall rates of 1-3 inches per hour" due to the moisture-laden atmosphere. The Greater Orlando metro area and Martin County remain areas of concern, with soil saturation levels soaring between 75-85 percent. This has put Orlando in the uncomfortable position of dealing with yet more potential flooding, particularly given the slow-moving storms and the potential for the rain to continually hit the same spots.
We can expect the stormy skies to clear somewhat, but not before drenching the region with an additional 2-4 inches of rain in places, with the more unfortunate localities potentially receiving up to 6 inches. Orlando's daytime temperatures will feel the impact, hovering in the mid-80s, while nightfall brings temperatures down just a bit into the 70s.
Boaters should remain vigilant as the choppy waters pose a significant risk, and everyone is encouraged to stay tuned for further updates on weather conditions as they develop.