San Franciscans looking to escape to Florida's theme park capital this weekend can expect mostly sunny skies and warm weather in Orlando. According to the National Weather Service Melbourne, FL, the Orlando area is forecasted to experience "VFR prevailing today with NE winds developing, 5-12 KT." For the uninformed, that's aviation speak for 'good news'—visual flight rules will be in effect, meaning clear to fly.
While theme park enthusiasts might be reveling under the sun, beachgoers should exercise caution as a "high risk of rip currents and rough surf continue at area beaches today," the National Weather Service cautioned. Swimmers and surfers should be mindful of these potentially dangerous conditions, especially since Floridian waves don't mess around.
Heading into the weekend, Orlando's weather remains favorable for those planning to check out the latest attractions. The National Weather Service explained, "High pressure across the region will gradually weaken through late weekend," resulting in "E/NE winds prevailing across east central FL through the weekend as will generally dry conditions." Translation? The lingering summer-like heat gives us one more excuse to indulge in another round of butterbeer at the Wizarding World.
However, captains planning to take vessels out on the waters might want to hold off. Beginning Friday, the winds are shifting, and the seas are expected to build back up to 5 feet offshore. By Monday, the National Weather Service forecasts "increasing onshore winds and developing long E/NE fetch, up to 3-5 feet Monday, and potentially up to 6 feet offshore by late Monday afternoon into Monday evening," suggesting choppy conditions that recreational boaters might not find too welcoming.
Back inland, the St Johns River continues its gradual retreat from the major flood stage, but residents should remain abreast of conditions. "River levels along the St Johns River at Astor and Deland remain in Major Flood Stage but should continue a slow fall through late week into the weekend," a hydrology report from the National Weather Service indicated. Persistent flooding impacts are anticipated, so those affected should stay informed of any potential hazard updates.
Looking at the thermometer, Orlando will dish out highs ranging from the low 80s at the coast to mid-80s across the interior, with overnight lows comfortably in the 60s—perfect for post-park evening strolls. The National Weather Service said, "No significant changes in temperatures expected into the weekend."
