Orlando wakes up under a blanket of clouds this morning with temperatures hovering near 70°F, and the stage is already set for a warm, unsettled weekend. Expect a high close to 80°F today, with scattered showers and a shot at thunderstorms through the midday hours and the afternoon commute. East-northeast winds will run about 5–15 mph, and brief downpours could leave roads slick during the busiest part of the day.
Afternoon Timing
Spotty showers may pop up before 11 a.m., but the prime window for thunderstorms runs from late morning into mid-afternoon, roughly 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Forecasters peg the overall rain chance at about 50% today, with most neighborhoods picking up a few tenths of an inch and isolated heavier spots near a quarter-inch. Be ready for quick bursts of rain that can cut visibility in a hurry and slow traffic.
Sunday Into Monday: Stronger Storms Possible
Sunday (March 15) and Monday (March 16) look like the main event, with showers and storms becoming more widespread and an increased chance that a few could turn strong to severe. The primary threats are gusty winds that could spike to 50–60 mph in the strongest storms and coin-sized hail, along with a low risk of repeated heavier downpours that might trigger minor urban flooding. A sharp cold front is expected to sweep through Monday night and usher in noticeably cooler air for Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne.
Boating And Beach Hazards
Mariners and beachgoers will want to keep a close eye on conditions. Seas and onshore winds should pick up from Sunday into Monday and may turn hazardous from Monday night into Tuesday as winds shift and waves build. Forecasts show seas climbing into the 4–6 foot range on Monday, with the potential for even larger waves offshore early Tuesday, and rip currents could be elevated along the central Atlantic coast while the weather stays unsettled. If you have plans on the water, it may be worth pushing them until after the front clears and conditions calm down.
Plan Ahead
Give yourself extra time for the afternoon commute, tie down or bring in loose outdoor furniture, and keep a simple rain backup plan in place for any outdoor events through Monday. For more on the coastal and fog issues we have been tracking, see Orlando wakes up in a fog. Check the National Weather Service for the latest watches and warnings before you head out.
