Orlando/ Weather & Environment

Orlando Roasts Under 109-Degree Heat Index as Stormy Week Sets In

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Published on August 17, 2026
Orlando Roasts Under 109-Degree Heat Index as Stormy Week Sets InSource: Benoît Prieur, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Orlando woke to clear skies Monday, but the calm start will give way to dangerous heat by afternoon. High temperatures are expected to reach 98 degrees, while the heat index could climb as high as 109. Showers and thunderstorms may develop after 1 p.m., offering only spotty relief from the heat.

Heat Advisory Runs Through Monday Evening

A Heat Advisory is in effect for the Orlando area from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, according to the National Weather Service. Peak heat index values across east central Florida are expected to reach between 108 and 112 degrees, with west winds running 5 to 10 mph.

Residents should drink plenty of fluids, limit strenuous outdoor activity and take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning. Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles, and anyone showing signs of heat illness should be moved to a cool place immediately; heat stroke is a 911 emergency.

Afternoon Storms Become More Frequent

Monday’s rain chance is around 30%, with the best opportunity arriving during the afternoon and early evening. Any storms that form could bring frequent lightning, brief heavy downpours and wind gusts of up to 55 mph.

Tuesday brings a slightly lower high near 96 degrees but a much better chance of showers and thunderstorms, around 60%. The heat index could still reach 107, and storms may produce gusts up to 20 mph in the Orlando area.

Hot, Stormy Pattern Sticks Around

Wednesday and Thursday should remain mostly sunny at times, with highs near 95 and thunderstorms likely during the afternoon or evening. Overnight lows will stay muggy in the upper 70s, leaving little relief after sunset.

Friday’s high is also forecast near 95, followed by a 50% chance of afternoon storms. The weekend eases only slightly, with highs near 94, thunderstorms likely Saturday and a smaller 40% storm chance Sunday.