Orlando Weather Forecast: Strong, damaging storms possible Wednesday in Central Florida

ORLANDO, Fla. - Wednesday is a FOX 35 Storm Alert Day, as an extensive storm system sprawling across the Midwest and Southern United States may bring some strong to severe storms to Florida.

According to the latest forecast models, a cold front will begin to move across Florida early Wednesday morning, increasing the chances for isolated strong to severe thunderstorms. Below is the latest weather forecast, models, timeline, and possible weather threats to be aware of:

Weather Forecast Timeline: When are the storms expected to arrive?

The system will begin in northern Florida and North Central Florida, including Gainesville and Ocala, mid-to-late Wednesday morning before continuing down into the Orlando metro.

Currently, it appears the best chance for showers and thunderstorms will be between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Rain chances will linger throughout the evening and should make it out of the Orlando area by midnight.

What are the biggest weather threats?

A lot of lightning will occur with these storms, as well as downpours, small hail, and strong, gusty winds. Wind gusts in some areas could reach 60+ mph.

There is a risk – though low – of a tornado forming. 

The NWS may issue severe thunderstorm watches, warnings, or even a tornado watch or warning as these systems move through.

Orlando Weather Radar | FOX 35 Storm Tracker

 

More radar maps from FOX 35 Storm Tracker Radar

• Brevard County
• Flagler County
• Marion County
• Osceola County
• Orange County
• Polk County
• Seminole County
• Sumter County
• Volusia County
• U.S./National Radar

The week ahead

After Wednesday, temperatures will drop to below-average temperatures on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 

Overnight lows in Orlando will drop into the low 50s. Some upper 40s are possible in areas north of Orlando on Friday morning and Saturday morning.

Expect sunny skies with highs in the low 70s.

Orlando solar eclipse weather forecast

Things look good for the eclipse viewing next Monday in Central Florida, which will occur just after 3 p.m. Eastern time. Temperatures will warm back into the middle to high 80s the middle of next week, before another front with more rain and storms is possible at the end of next week.