Sunday in Orlando is starting deceptively calm: mostly clear, muggy, temperatures hovering around 70°F, and some patchy fog in low-lying spots. That quiet setup will not stick around for long. Scattered showers and numerous thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and into tonight, with highs near 85°F before storms roll in and cool things down. If you have outdoor plans, be ready for brief heavy downpours and gusty winds later today.
Afternoon Storms And Heavy Rain
Scattered storms are expected to fire up along the coast and then push inland, becoming most widespread from about noon through the early evening. The National Weather Service Melbourne notes that most areas have a high chance of storms today, with typical rainfall amounts around a quarter to a half inch. The strongest cells could drop locally higher totals, and minor urban flooding is possible where storms train over the same neighborhoods.
Small Severe Risk
There is a small but severe threat in the mix this afternoon. The Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of East Central Florida in a Marginal Risk. Forecasters estimate about a 5–10% chance of damaging wind gusts, with quarter-size hail possible in the strongest storms and frequent lightning a good bet. Because of the wind and lightning threat, head indoors when you hear thunder and avoid driving through flooded roadways.
Morning Fog And Commute Tips
Before the storms, patchy fog through about 10 a.m. will knock down visibility in low-lying areas and could slow the morning commute. If you drive into the haze, slow down and use low beams. Conditions should improve by midmorning, but it is smart to leave extra time on both ends of the day, since the afternoon storms could also disrupt travel.
Boaters, Beaches And The Coast
At the beaches, a high rip-current risk is expected today along the Atlantic coast, so swimmers should be extra cautious. Boaters can expect gusty, choppy conditions into early next week. The forecast discussion also calls for a Small Craft Advisory starting Monday morning and lasting through Tuesday night, so small vessels should stay in port if possible. If you do head to the shore, obey local lifeguards and posted flags.
Looking Ahead
A strong cold front is set to move through on Monday, March 16, 2026, bringing another round of showers and storms along with gusty northwest winds Monday night. Behind the front, much cooler air settles in on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with lows dipping into the 40s away from the immediate coast and highs struggling to reach the low 60s north of Orlando.
What To Watch
Keep an eye on radar and any watches or warnings this afternoon, and make sure you have a charged phone and a safe place to shelter if a warning is issued. For official updates and the latest watches, check local emergency channels and the National Weather Service before heading out.
