Orlando and surrounding parts of central Florida are facing several more days of heavy rain and thunderstorms, with the wet pattern expected to continue through the Labor Day weekend.
Forecasters are putting the chance of rain at 70% on Thursday, 3 September, and 60% on Friday. Storms are expected to become more widespread during the afternoon, although showers could begin earlier in coastal areas.
Downpours are possible during the morning across Flagler, Volusia and Brevard counties before showers and thunderstorms move inland from the Atlantic. The most active period is expected between 1pm and 6pm.
The National Weather Service office in Melbourne said a more active sea breeze and high levels of moisture would increase the risk of locally heavy rainfall and minor flooding across east-central Florida.
Some areas could see waterlogged ground, standing water and flooding on roads, particularly where repeated storms pass over the same locations. The National Weather Service also warned of occasional or frequent cloud-to-ground lightning and wind gusts of around 40mph.
Rainfall totals could reach 3in or more across widespread parts of the region by the end of the week. Individual storms may also produce torrential rain and sudden reductions in visibility for drivers.
Storms expected across Orlando over Labor Day weekend
The unsettled weather is expected to continue during the holiday weekend, though slightly drier air may bring longer spells of sunshine and a modest reduction in storm coverage.
There is likely to be about a 50% chance of scattered afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms, driven by collisions between the Atlantic and Gulf sea breezes. The risk of storms may be higher in some areas on individual days.
Temperatures are expected to climb back towards the mid-90s Fahrenheit, equivalent to the mid-30s Celsius, with humid conditions making it feel hotter. The National Weather Service said afternoon heat indices could remain in the triple digits.
Residents and visitors have been advised to monitor local forecasts during outdoor plans, seek shelter when thunder is heard and allow extra time for travel during the heaviest storms.
