Orlando, Fla. – Tornadoes, damaging wind gusts, and torrential downpours could hit East Central Florida late Friday afternoon, with the most intense activity expected between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather covers much of the region, including Orlando, Sanford, Daytona Beach, and Melbourne. Forecasters warn of a 5–15% chance of wind gusts exceeding 60 mph and a brief tornado forming along the sea breeze front.
Cities like Kissimmee, Leesburg, and Titusville face the added threat of coin-sized hail and dangerous lightning strikes. Localized flooding is also possible, especially in low-lying areas with poor drainage, as rainfall totals could top 1 inch in some spots. The chance of 3 inches or more remains low but not zero—especially where storms train over the same locations.
Residents should avoid travel during peak storm hours and have multiple ways to receive warnings. If under a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately indoors, away from windows.
Storms are expected to taper off late tonight, but more severe weather could return this weekend. Stay tuned for updates from the NWS and local emergency management.
