ORLANDO, Fla. – Saturday was a weather rollercoaster for Central Florida, as a mix of gripping heat and dramatic storms swept through the region. Temperatures raced to the mid-to-upper 90s, prompting heat advisories, while scattered thunderstorms favored the corridors between I-4 and I-75. In Marion County, some neighborhoods experienced severe thunderstorms that left a noticeable mark. You can view some of the damage HERE. As the evening unfolded, spotty storms persisted until about 9 p.m., followed by the possibility of just a shower or two. By 10 p.m., the skies cleared, leaving behind only passing clouds and temperatures dipping into the comfortable mid-to-upper 70s.
Sunday
As we look towards Sunday, Central Florida braces for another warm afternoon, but there’s a silver lining. The heat, though significant, won’t quite reach advisory levels, so prepare for highs in the mid-90s and heat indices ranging from 100ºF to 105ºF. More clouds bring optimism, as increased rain chances are in the forecast thanks to a stronger westerly steering flow, particularly for those east of I-4.
Expect spotty storms to start bubbling up around I-75 by noon, gradually advancing towards I-4 by early to mid-afternoon. As these showers journey eastward, the second half of the afternoon may see downpours reaching the coastal beaches, promising a refreshing but brief respite before they dissipate around sunset.
Next Week
Our next batch of Saharan Dust will begin pushing into Central Florida next week. This will allow us to dry out the atmosphere and heat us up at the same time.
Rain chances will be shaved by 10% each day until we bottom out at 20% by Wednesday. Temperatures, in turn, will soar back into the upper 90s with heat indices crossing north of 105ºF.