Melbourne, Fla. – Scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms will soak much of Central and East Central Florida through the weekend, with storm coverage as high as 80% and the heaviest rainfall expected inland. Residents should prepare for repeated rounds of storms that could drop 2 to 4 inches of rain, bringing a low but present risk of localized flooding in urban and poorly drained areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, the most intense storms may produce gusty winds of 40–50 mph, frequent lightning, and isolated rainfall totals up to 5 inches. Along the coast, storm activity is most likely overnight and during the morning hours, while interior areas will see peak activity in the afternoon and early evening.
A high risk of rip currents will remain in effect for all Atlantic beaches of Central Florida, with forecasters strongly urging swimmers to avoid entering the surf. Hazardous lightning and reduced visibility will make travel risky, and boaters should be alert for fast-developing storms.
Rain chances will persist into early next week, with additional advisories possible as conditions evolve.
