It looks like Orlando residents are in for a wet and stormy week, according to the latest weather update from the National Weather Service Melbourne FL. The forecast, issued early this morning, predicts high chances of rain and thunderstorms continuing daily through mid-week. There is a low threat for locally heavy rainfall and minor flooding through at least mid-week, states the National Weather Service's Forecast Discussion. So, if you've got outdoor plans, you may want to reschedule or bring an umbrella.
The reason behind this soggy scenario, losing its baroclinic definition, a cold front is creeping down from the Gulf States and expected to park itself over north Florida by tonight. Despite a high reaching into the 90s today, the forecast indicates that peak heat index values reach 98 to 104 before Orlando sees a more temperate trend in temperatures throughout the rest of the week.
For aviators, the conditions might be somewhat variable. The National Weather Service advises, "Will monitor for IFR/MVFR stratus early this morning. Otherwise, generally VFR outside of convection." With the east coast sea breeze in the afternoon, those in flight or with plans to take off should be cautious of the potential for stormy weather impacting their plans.
Looking ahead, there's talk of an upper-level trough that's going to flatten over the north, while high pressures build southward midweek. Moving southward across central Florida through Thursday, a stationary front spells out continuous cloudy and rainy days.
As for boaters, the marine outlook offers a similarly mixed bag. Favorable conditions are expected outside of the storm activity, with seas remaining a manageable 2-3 feet until possibly climbing up to 5 feet in the Gulf Stream later in the week. Boating enthusiasts are advised to keep an eye on the weather and to stay aware of gusty showers, especially today.
Preliminary temperature predictions show not a whole lot of relief from the heat, with daytime highs in the upper 80s to low 90s and overnight lows lingering in the humid low to mid 70s. Folks in the area should prepare for more of the same with "Main storm hazards today will be occasional to frequent lightning strikes, gusty winds of 40-45 mph, and locally heavy rainfall of 1-3", which may cause minor flooding, Persistence, it seems, is as true for the weather in Orlando as it is for the spirit of its people.
.jpg){kind=link}