As Orlando residents wind down their holiday weekend, the National Weather Service Melbourne FL has alerted the area to a weather pattern that includes lightning, wind gusts up to 50 mph, and heavy downpours. In a statement released early this morning, it was noted that these conditions are a result of a persistent moist airmass lingering over the peninsula, with scattered to numerous showers and storms forecast throughout the work week. Additionally, with temperatures creeping back into the lower 90s, tropical humidity is set to push peak heat indices into the oppressive range of 100 to 105 degrees on most afternoons.
Today’s forecast is largely influenced by Tropical Storm Chantal’s movement onshore along the South Carolina coast and its northward progression throughout the day. The shifting atmospheric patterns are expected to allow for a sea breeze collision, particularly favoring the eastern portions of the peninsula later this afternoon. According to the National Weather Service, this weather activity is expected to have a 70 percent probability over the I-4 corridor. At the same time, the Treasure Coast may experience a lower chance of rain and storms. Orlando and the surrounding areas should brace for the potential of experiencing frequent cloud-to-ground lightning and conditions that could support localized flooding, especially in areas that are already well-saturated or have poor drainage systems.
As the new week kicks off, the Atlantic ridge axis is projected to continue its northward journey across Florida. This movement should result in another round of southwesterly winds and pinned east coast sea breezes, which translates to a persistent 50-65% chance of rain on both Monday and Tuesday afternoons. This pattern not only heralds the recurring prospects of lightning and gusty winds but also primes the environment for more heavy downpours, as activity may fade overnight…