Orlando, Fla. – Afternoon storms will bring dangerous lightning and heavy rain across East Central Florida today, with severe weather expected to disrupt travel and daily routines from Orlando to Daytona Beach through early evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, widespread thunderstorms are targeting interior regions, especially around Orlando, Sanford, and Leesburg, with an 80% chance of rain and the threat of gusty winds from mid-afternoon through 8 p.m. Wednesday. Daytona Beach, Kissimmee, and Okeechobee are also at risk for lightning strikes and downpours, while Melbourne and Vero Beach may see slightly lower rain chances.
Roads like I-4 and U.S. 441 could become slick and flooded, with possible delays for commuters and school activities. Residents should avoid outdoor plans during storms, seek shelter indoors, and keep devices charged in case of power outages. Emergency managers warn of sudden street flooding and isolated tree damage in storm-prone neighborhoods.
Storm coverage will decrease late in the week, but rising temperatures will set up a hot, humid weekend. Stay tuned for additional advisories, as weather threats may continue into Thursday for parts of Central Florida.
