Visitors making plans in Orlando Saturday can check the latest weather conditions before heading out.
Saturday weather outlook
Visitors should check the latest forecast before making outdoor plans Saturday.
Visitors should be prepared to adjust plans if conditions change.
A familiar seasonal setup, not a long-term trend
The forecast fits a common Central Florida summer pattern. The National Weather Service Melbourne puts Orlando's median rainy-season start at May 27 and says collisions between the Gulf and Atlantic sea breezes can produce widespread storms, frequent lightning and heavy rain. That explains why afternoon storms are common; it does not, by itself, show that this year's weather is becoming more extreme.
The current forecast also should not be compared directly with major tropical events. The National Weather Service reports that Tropical Storm Fay in 2008 produced numerous rainfall reports exceeding 20 inches across east central Florida. Fay was a tropical-storm-driven event and a much larger rainfall episode than the non-tropical thunderstorms forecast for Orlando Saturday.
What visitors should know
Visitors with outdoor plans at the theme parks should check park updates before leaving. The National Weather Service advises people caught outside during a storm to avoid tall, exposed objects and open areas such as lakes and beaches, and to seek safer shelter instead. Walt Disney World says its water parks can close because of weather, rehabilitation, seasonal or capacity issues, so visitors should check the official Typhoon Lagoon page and other park updates before leaving.
More storms expected next week
Saturday night conditions could vary, while Sunday should again reach about 89 degrees, with a 70% chance of afternoon and evening storms.
The unsettled pattern is expected to continue Monday through Wednesday, with daily storm chances near 70% and highs in the upper 80s. Chances ease somewhat Thursday and Friday, though afternoon thunderstorms remain possible. No watches or warnings are currently in effect.
