Orlando is waking up to mostly clear skies Tuesday, but the calm will not last. A Heat Advisory is in effect as temperatures climb toward the upper 90s, with afternoon thunderstorms bringing a chance of lightning, gusty winds and sudden downpours.
Heat Peaks Before Storms
The advisory runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., when the heat index could reach 108 to 112 degrees across east central Florida. The high near Orlando is expected to reach 97 degrees, with west winds of 5 to 10 mph and gusts up to 20 mph, according to the National Weather Service Melbourne.
Afternoon Storms Could Pack A Punch
Showers and thunderstorms have a 50% chance of developing after 1 p.m., with the greatest activity expected during the afternoon and early evening. Some storms could produce frequent lightning, wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph and heavy rain, with isolated rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches potentially causing quick, localized flooding.
Storm chances should ease Tuesday night, with showers and thunderstorms possible before 9 p.m. Skies will turn partly cloudy overnight, but the low will only fall to around 80 degrees, offering limited relief from the humidity.
Storm Chances Stay Elevated Through The Weekend
Wednesday and Thursday will remain hot, with highs near 96 degrees and storm chances reaching 70% Wednesday and 60% Thursday. Friday and Saturday bring mostly sunny starts followed by afternoon storm chances, with highs in the mid-90s.
Rain chances ease somewhat Sunday and Monday, but isolated afternoon storms remain possible. The National Weather Service expects temperatures to trend closer to normal late in the week, though heat indices could still push well into the triple digits.
Heat Safety Still Matters
Drink plenty of water, take breaks in air conditioning or shade, and move strenuous outdoor work to the early morning or evening when possible. The City of Orlando also advises residents to watch for signs of heat illness and check on children, older adults, neighbors and pets.
