Orlando drivers should prepare for wet pavement and delays on I-4 this Labor Day as thunderstorms threaten the region through midweek. The National Weather Service warns of repeated rounds of rain and lightning across Central Florida, while a blast of cool September air pushes into much of the Midwest and East.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, storms will build each afternoon through Tuesday, bringing brief downpours, gusty winds, and frequent lightning. Rain chances climb as high as 70% on Labor Day itself, creating potential disruptions for outdoor plans and evening travel. Motorists should reduce speed on wet roads, avoid flooded intersections, and expect heavy traffic around Orlando theme parks and downtown events.
While Florida holds onto sticky heat with highs in the upper 80s, much of the country is about to feel the first taste of fall. A widespread push of cooler September air will sweep from the Great Lakes to the Tennessee Valley, dropping overnight lows into the 50s. Though Central Florida won’t feel the chill, the temperature contrast could enhance storm energy across the Southeast into early next week.
Residents are urged to keep devices charged in case of brief outages and check forecasts frequently as storm timing shifts. Outdoor workers and beachgoers should watch the sky closely, as lightning can strike miles away from rainfall.
Thunderstorm chances remain strong into Wednesday before easing slightly late week. More advisories may be issued if rainfall totals or storm intensity increase.
Five Day Forecast for Orlando, FL
- Sunday: High 89, scattered thunderstorms, 80% chance of rain.
- Labor Day Monday: High 88, storms likely after 11 a.m., 70% chance.
- Tuesday: High 87, afternoon storms, 70% chance.
- Wednesday: High 87, storms continue, 60% chance.
- Thursday: High 90, partly sunny, storms possible, 50% chance.
