Orlando started Tuesday, April 21, 2026, under bright, calm-looking skies, but the atmosphere is anything but relaxed. Morning temperatures in the upper 60s are headed toward a high near 81°F, and strengthening northeast winds will make it breezy along the coast and warmer inland. By afternoon, those same winds are expected to push wildfire danger sharply higher across interior parts of central Florida.
Afternoon Winds And Fire Risk
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday for inland Volusia, Lake, Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Okeechobee counties, citing northeast winds of 15 to 20 mph with frequent gusts to 30 to 35 mph and humidity dropping into the upper 20s to mid 30s. “Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly,” and outdoor burning is not recommended, according to the National Weather Service. People working outside are urged to put off mowing and other spark-producing tasks until the winds back off.
Coastal Hazards And Boating
Onshore flow will churn up the Atlantic, keeping surf choppy and rough. Forecasters are calling for a HIGH risk of numerous, strong rip currents at central Atlantic beaches, and multiple Small Craft Advisories remain in effect, with seas around 3 to 5 feet. Boaters are advised to skip nonessential trips, and swimmers should obey lifeguard flags, stay inside marked swim zones, and keep a close eye on kids in the water.
Through The Week
Wednesday looks a touch cooler but still breezy, with highs near 80°F. A slight chance of afternoon showers and isolated storms returns Thursday, then ramps up into the weekend as temperatures climb into the mid to upper 80s and approach 90°F by Sunday. For more background on the recent flip between dry, windy spells and stormier stretches, see Orlando's weather whiplash.
What You Should Do
Avoid outdoor burning and hold off on nonessential yard work during the windiest hours this afternoon. Secure loose outdoor furniture, and do not drive or park on dry grass. If you see smoke or notice a new fire starting, call 911 immediately and give firefighters plenty of room to work when they arrive.
