Orlando residents can expect to see some breezy conditions and warmer temperatures today, according to the National Weather Service Melbourne FL. Southwest winds are predicted to gust between 15-25 mph this afternoon, creating less than ideal conditions for boating later today and into tonight. This was mentioned in a forecast discussion issued at 107 AM EST by the National Weather Service.
Furthermore, the region is looking at a turn in the weather with scattered showers expected to start moving southward over east central Florida starting this evening. "The chance of lightning is low," the Weather Service noted, and while rain accumulations could be modest for the most part, some areas north of Orlando might see up to half an inch. Floridians will also get a taste of spring next week as daytime highs are forecast to hit the lower 80s by Tuesday or Wednesday.
As for the longer-term forecast, the trend seems to be heading towards above-normal temperatures. The National Weather Service predicts that, with the aforementioned ridge setting up shop, any consequential weather features are forecast to be deflected well north of the state. This pattern suggests Central Florida is in for several days of spring-like weather, with a potential to tie daily record highs towards the latter part of the week.
Maritime enthusiasts should take caution as the Small Craft Advisories will be going into effect for the offshore waters by this afternoon. Southwest breezes are ramping up, with winds expected to turn northwest to north on Sunday, and seas 2-4 FT nearshore this weekend, up to 5 FT offshore. Conditions are set to improve early next week as high pressure returns. However, another substantial front might reach Florida by next Sunday (January 11th) or Monday, indicating a possible shift in the pleasant warmth.
The skies are generally clear for flying, though some challenges might arise. The Aviation forecast released at 645 AM EST suggests areas of VLIFR CIGs and patchy fog lifting north should stay south and east of MCO but affect FPR/VRB/MLB/TIX through 13Z. In addition, the cold front anticipated tonight into Sunday morning might bring IFR/LIFR CIGs impacting visibility and ceiling heights, especially at MCO, where 45% prob for IFR CIGs at MCO 12Z Sun with CIGs slow to rise thereafter, remaining below VFR until 17Z-18Z.
