Memorial Day weekend forecast for Orlando and Central Florida<\/p>\n
ORLANDO, Fla. \u2013 Get ready for a classic Central Florida kick-off to summer. Expect hot days and those familiar afternoon storms for Central Florida this Memorial Day weekend.<\/p>\n
Saturday began on the dry side, but showers and thunderstorms are expected to roll in later this afternoon and stick around into the evening. If you\u2019re heading out for plans after 1 p.m., keep an umbrella close. Forecast highs are soaring to the upper 80s and lower 90s, with heat index values likely to feel like the triple digits. Rain chances will rise from around 20% late in the morning up to 40 to 50% by evening.<\/p>\n
Highs<\/p>\n
Looking ahead to Memorial Day, the forecast is for a drier stretch, though a few showers and storms are still possible. Still, lower rain chances mean more time to enjoy those outdoor barbecues or take in the sunshine safely.<\/p>\n
Most of Saturday\u2019s storm activity is expected to focus west of the I-4 corridor, as sea breezes kick up through the afternoon. Some storms could be stronger, bringing wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph, frequent lightning, and bursts of heavy rain.<\/p>\n
Increased rain and storm activity for the upcoming week<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t put away the umbrellas just yet\u2014higher rain chances are expected as we move into the work week. Scattered storms are likely most afternoons, with Wednesday and beyond seeing rain chance coverage spike to 70 to 80%. Highs are forecast to hold steady in the lower 90s, but afternoon storms could help cool things off briefly before the humidity ramps back up.<\/p>\n
The pattern for wetter afternoons sets up after Memorial Day, so it\u2019s a good idea to plan ahead and stay weather-aware.<\/p>\n
Beach safety and heat precautions<\/p>\n
Planning to spend some time on the sand? The beach forecast looks inviting with air temperatures near 90 degrees and water temps around 78. Expect a high UV index, so lather on the sunscreen\u2014sunburns can happen in as little as 10 to 15 minutes. The rip current risk is also high, so swim near a lifeguard and keep a close eye on little ones. Southeast winds will range from 10 to 15 mph, adding a breezy feel to that beach day.<\/p>\n
Hydration is key: with the high humidity, it\u2019s going to feel downright steamy. Take those familiar Florida heat precautions and watch for storms developing in the afternoon hours if you\u2019re out and about.<\/p>\n