The National Weather Service in Melbourne, FL, has sent out a storm alert for east central Florida, warning of high rain and storm probabilities today, with lightning, gusty winds, and local flooding as the primary threats. According to the forecast, there's also a marginal risk of excessive rainfall in the entire region today.
Orlando residents, if you're hoping for a break from the mugginess, don't hold your breath because the deep, moist airmass is not going anywhere just yet. The chances of showers and storms are increasing to 70-90% this afternoon into the evening, although temperatures will remain near the upper 80s to low 90s. The Weather Prediction Center has designated all of east central Florida as having a Marginal Risk of excessive rainfall, so keep an eye out for any updated weather advisories.
Looking ahead to Thursday and Friday, the National Weather Service predicts that as the mid-level trough and surface low continue to shift west across the Gulf, there will still be a 50-70% chance of rainfall, particularly focused west of the I-95 corridor. The high pressure that's expected to build in the area will bring drier air and reduce shower and storm chances to about 30-50%.
For those hoping to enjoy a sunny weekend, the forecast is slightly more forgiving, as the mid-level and surface highs will be situated over north Florida, leading to below-normal moisture and rain chances – just as the NBM has suggested a downward trend for precipitation probabilities with a 20-30% chance on Saturday and potentially lower on Sunday. However, with rising afternoon highs in the mid to upper 90s, Orlando will be baking, and heat advisories are likely to be issued through the weekend into early next week, so don't skimp on hydration or shade breaks.
Mariners should also take note, as the National Weather Service predicts a weather pattern for the local Atlantic waters through Thursday, with the potential for storm development and typical coastal concerns, including lightning, gusty winds, and heavy rain. Conditions on the water are expected to remain generally favorable, except during periods of shower and storm activity, with seas steady at 1 to 3 feet and winds at a moderate 10 to 15 knots.
