Fort Myers is starting Monday under cloudy skies and around 72 degrees, with showers and thunderstorms likely through early afternoon. The rain could be locally heavy at times as breezy easterly flow continues.
Heavy Rain Takes Center Stage Monday
Rain chances are highest this morning and early afternoon, with a 70% chance for the day. The forecast calls for showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m., followed by scattered storms, while winds may be gusty. The latest National Weather Service discussion says locally heavy rain could produce flooding, with a Flood Watch in effect through this afternoon for Highlands County.
Lee County is not named in that Flood Watch, but Fort Myers residents should still expect slick roads, sudden visibility drops and ponding in low-lying spots. Anyone hearing thunder should move indoors, and drivers should never cross water they cannot judge safely.
Tuesday Stays Warm And Unsettled
Tuesday brings a high near 86 degrees, with a few morning showers and a better chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Rain chances run around 60%, and another quarter- to half-inch of rain is possible. Winds ease slightly to about 10 mph from the east-northeast.
Tuesday night remains partly cloudy and muggy, with a low near 71 degrees and a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Wednesday stays warm near 85 degrees, with scattered afternoon storms still possible.
Sunshine Takes Over Later In The Week
The pattern turns notably drier Thursday, when mostly sunny skies and a high near 85 are expected. Rain chances should be minimal Friday as a front moves through, and weekend mornings should be cooler.
Weekend lows are expected to be in the low to mid-60s across central and southern areas. A weak front late in the week should bring lower humidity and a more comfortable finish after the soggy start.
Outdoor Plans Need A Backup
Monday's combination of downpours, lightning and gusty winds makes the morning and early-afternoon window a poor bet for beach, boating or other outdoor plans. Conditions should gradually improve this evening, with rain chances diminishing into the night.
