Downtown Orlando started Friday, February 27, under light rain and patchy fog, with temperatures sitting near 64°F at Orlando Executive (KORL). The day will warm into the low 80s, but scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to fire up this afternoon, setting the stage for a wet, breezy evening commute.
Afternoon Storm Risk
A few spotty showers could pop up around midday, with coverage ramping up to scattered showers and thunderstorms from mid to late afternoon. Forecasters put the chance of rain near 60 percent this afternoon, and the stronger storms could pack brief heavy downpours, gusty winds, and small hail, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne. Most of the storm action is expected to favor inland neighborhoods and the northern suburbs, so if you have outdoor plans, it is a good idea to keep an eye on the radar.
Tonight Into Saturday
Showers and thunderstorms are likely overnight, with a low near 62°F and rain chances around 70 percent. The front will sag south on Saturday, keeping rain chances elevated and allowing pockets of heavier rain to linger through the day. Many spots could see 0.5 to 1.5 inches of rain, with locally higher totals where storms pass repeatedly over the same areas.
Foggy Morning Commute
Patchy, locally dense fog is most likely early Friday near the Kissimmee River, Lake Okeechobee, and the Treasure Coast. Drivers should allow extra time and use low-beam headlights. Visibility drops may be brief but can trigger sudden slowdowns on surface streets and near bridge approaches.
Boaters And Beachgoers
Boating conditions start fair this morning but are expected to deteriorate through the weekend as onshore flow strengthens. Seas may build by early next week, creating hazardous conditions for small craft. At the beaches, expect choppy surf and follow lifeguard instructions before heading into the water.
Where This Leaves The Week
Once the weekend front moves through, drier and breezier weather should return early next week, with high temperatures back in the upper 70s to low 80s. For background on the warm stretch that led into this pattern, see this look at recent weather whiplash.
Quick Tips
If you have afternoon outdoor plans, keep rain gear handy and plan for possible travel delays, and secure loose patio items before the breeze picks up. Check the radar before driving longer distances or heading offshore, and avoid being on open water when thunderstorms are nearby.
