Orlando is getting ready for another scorcher tomorrow, with afternoon thunderstorms and peak heat indices ranging from 104 to 107 degrees. “Continued hot and humid with peak heat indices of 104-107 today,” the agency reported early Sunday morning.
The humidity increases the potential of dispersed lightning storms, which could bring heavy rain, gusty winds, and, of course, dangerous lightning strikes this afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.
These weather conditions are caused by a “broad upper-level ridge across the southern US and SW Atlc” that continues in place, as well as “a small weakness in the ridge over FL,” according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, Florida.
Also, they report, “Steering flow is weak, esp across southern sections so slow and erratic storm motion will promote very heavy rain with up to 3 inches possible in a short time.” Residents should be prepared for frequent lightning and gusts gusting up to 50 mph this afternoon.
Looking ahead to Monday, the sea wind is expected to arrive sooner, although some dry air advection is projected to reduce rain chances along the Treasure Coast by 30-40%. However, larger moisture pockets will allow for 50-60% coverage in the interior and northern parts. Residents should expect comparable temperatures, with the muggy, heavy-air feeling that has become all too familiar.
The marine outlook predicts relatively excellent boating conditions throughout the week. “The Atlantic high-pressure ridge axis will remain across south FL today then lift northward across central FL early this week before settling back across south FL mid-week,” according to the predictions.
Winds will normally be at 10 knots or less, with seas remaining stable at about 2 feet to 3 feet offshore. For those hitting the seas, keep an eye out for scattered lightning storms, especially in the afternoon, which can bring strong gusts and lightning strikes.