Orlando, Florida – Strong thunderstorms rolling through East Central Florida Friday evening are slamming cities like Orlando, Melbourne, and Daytona Beach with damaging winds, hail up to 2 inches, and dangerous lightning. The National Weather Service warns that gusts could top 60 mph in some areas, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and outdoor events.
According to the US National Weather Service in Melbourne, the storm system is impacting a wide swath from Deltona to Palm Bay between late afternoon and early evening. The main threats include large hail, frequent lightning strikes, and wind damage. While the tornado risk remains very low, forecasters emphasize the risk of “deadly lightning.”
Highways like I-4, US-192, and State Road 528 may see delays or closures due to storm debris or limited visibility. Residents in Orange, Seminole, Brevard, and Volusia counties should secure outdoor objects, avoid unnecessary travel, and remain indoors until the threat passes.
This is the most intense severe weather event in the region since early spring. Emergency alerts and warnings are active and may be extended as conditions evolve.
More updates are expected this evening. Severe weather watches remain in effect until at least 8 p.m.
