Orlando is waking up clear and sticky Thursday, with temperatures near 75 degrees and humidity close to 90%. The calm start will not last: showers and thunderstorms are expected to build from late morning into the afternoon, with a high near 91 and heat index readings between 100 and 105 degrees.
A few showers could develop between 9 and 11 a.m., then storm coverage should increase as the sea breeze pushes inland. The National Weather Service puts the daytime rain chance around 60%, with roughly a tenth to a quarter-inch of rain possible in many spots.
Afternoon Storms Bring Lightning And Sudden Downpours
Stronger storms may produce frequent lightning, wind gusts near 50 mph, small hail and locally heavy rain. Multiple rounds of showers could also cause minor, localized flooding, so outdoor plans and the afternoon commute may need a flexible backup.
Friday And Saturday Look Stormier
Friday and Saturday bring the most unsettled stretch, with storm chances around 60% to 70% and highs near 91 and 92 degrees. Storms could linger into Friday and Saturday evenings before fading, while overnight lows remain muggy in the mid to upper 70s.
Drier Sunday, Hotter Next Week
Rain chances ease closer to normal Sunday, when Orlando could reach 93 degrees with a 40% chance of afternoon storms. The heat builds further Monday through Wednesday, with highs from 94 to 95 degrees and heat index values generally between 102 and 107.
No watches or warnings are listed for the Orlando area Thursday morning, but lightning and sudden wind shifts remain the main concerns once storms develop. Have water nearby, avoid outdoor activity during thunder and move indoors promptly when storms approach.
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