Orlando, Florida, September 4, 2025
News Summary
Florida is bracing for a prolonged period of stormy weather that is expected to last into mid-September. Significant rainfalls, severe thunderstorms, and tornado warnings have already been issued for several counties, including Sumter and Pinellas. Both Orlando International Airport and local residents are experiencing flight delays and disruptions due to the severe conditions. As multiple weather disturbances pile up, increased rainfall and potential flooding are likely, especially in Central and Southern parts of the state. Residents are advised to stay updated on warnings and prepare for potential travel impacts.
Orlando
Florida is entering a prolonged period of stormy weather that could last into mid-September, bringing increased rainfall, frequent scattered downpours and periodic severe storms across much of the state. Multiple weather disturbances, a lingering frontal boundary and deep tropical moisture will combine to keep rain chances elevated, with some areas seeing significant coverage and persistent impacts into next week.
What is happening now (most critical details)
Severe thunderstorm activity has already prompted tornado watches and warnings across parts of the peninsula, including counties near Tampa such as Sumter, Pinellas and Hernando. Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued for other central counties including Lake and Orange, where threats included damaging winds up to 60 mph and heavy rainfall. Orlando International Airport reported flight delays tied to the weather system, with average delays near 90 minutes for arriving flights and two hours for departing flights. Residents are advised to monitor current conditions and heed any active warnings.
Why the wet pattern will persist
The extended wet period is driven by a combination of factors: multiple small-scale disturbances moving through the region, a lingering stationary front, and a deep pool of tropical moisture. Central Florida will see particularly high moisture levels that, when combined with daytime heating and persistent onshore winds, will enhance shower and thunderstorm development during afternoons and evenings.
Where the heaviest and most frequent storms are expected
The best daily chances for storms are forecast from Kissimmee to Melbourne, with southern portions of the state remaining generally more prone to rain. Northern neighborhoods will see comparatively lower chances, reduced to about 20–30% on many days under this pattern. Moving into the weekend, the setup will remain similar as small disturbances ride along the front, maintaining scattered to numerous showers and storms.
Temperatures and heat impacts
Central Florida temperatures are expected to remain slightly below normal in the near term, averaging in the upper 80s. Over the weekend, daytime highs are forecast to climb into the low 90s, and combined heat and humidity will push feels-like temperatures as high as 105 degrees in some locations. Higher humidity combined with storm-related wind gusts will increase the potential for short-term impacts on outdoor activities.
Looking ahead to next week
The wet pattern is expected to continue into next week. Forecasts indicate that starting Monday the state will remain under the influence of disturbances and the stationary front. By Tuesday, a potential area of low pressure could form over the Atlantic; its exact placement will be key, as it could raise rainfall coverage across the region to roughly 60–70% depending on where it sets up. Increased coverage would raise the chance for multiple rounds of heavy rain and localized flooding.
Impacts and public actions
Residents should expect frequent interruptions from showers and thunderstorms including gusty winds, heavy downpours and brief localized flooding. Those traveling through the Orlando area should plan for potential flight delays and allow extra time at airports. Motorists should exercise caution on wet roads and avoid driving through flooded sections. People in areas under watches or warnings should follow guidance from local emergency managers and weather officials.
Background context
Late summer is typically an active period for scattered thunderstorms across Florida as tropical moisture and sea-breeze interactions combine with frontal boundaries. This season’s combination of multiple disturbances and a lingering front is producing an amplified version of that pattern, extending storm chances and elevating the risk of severe episodes and heavy rainfall over several days.
FAQ
Q: How long will the stormy pattern last?
A: The stormy period is expected to persist into mid-September, with elevated rain chances each day as disturbances and a stationary front continue to influence the state. A potential low-pressure area in the Atlantic early next week could increase rainfall coverage.
Q: Which areas should expect the most storms?
A: Central coastal areas from Kissimmee to Melbourne are forecast to have the best daily chances for storms. Southern Florida remains more prone to frequent rain. Northern neighborhoods will generally see lower rain chances, around 20–30% on many days.
Q: Are severe storms likely?
A: Yes. Severe thunderstorms have already led to tornado watches and warnings in several counties, and additional severe storms with damaging winds and heavy rain are possible while the pattern persists.
Q: What are the expected temperature impacts?
A: Central Florida temperatures should be slightly below normal in the short term, averaging in the upper 80s, then rise into the low 90s over the weekend. Humid conditions could push feels-like temperatures up to 105 degrees in some areas.
Q: How will this affect travel?
A: Travel impacts include possible delays at airports, reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions due to heavy rain and gusty winds. Orlando International Airport reported average delays of about 90 minutes for arriving flights and two hours for departing flights during active periods.
Q: What should residents do?
A: Residents should stay informed about current weather, heed watches and warnings, avoid flooded roads, secure outdoor items against strong winds and allow extra time for travel. Follow local instructions if severe weather is imminent.
Quick reference chart: key features of the storm period
| Feature | Expected Impact | Primary Areas | Probability / Magnitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extended storms | Frequent scattered downpours; repeated storm rounds | Central & Southern Florida | High (through mid-September) |
| Severe thunderstorms | Damaging winds up to 60 mph; tornado watches/warnings | Counties including Sumter, Pinellas, Hernando, Lake, Orange | Elevated (localized severe events) |
| Rainfall coverage | Widespread showers; potential for localized flooding | Statewide, highest Kissimmee–Melbourne | 60–70% possible next week depending on low |
| Temperatures | Upper 80s now; low 90s weekend; feels-like up to 105°F | Central Florida | Near to slightly above normal (weekend) |
| Travel impacts | Flight delays, hazardous driving in heavy rain | Orlando area airports and major roads | Delays reported: ~90 min arriving, ~2 hrs departing |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Grande Lakes Orlando to Launch Fall Festival
Robotic Rabbits Deployed to Combat Invasive Burmese Pythons
Local Junior Golf Stars Shine at Central Florida Prep Invitational
Orlando’s Magical Dining Returns to Celebrate Culinary Excellence
Orlando’s Magical Dining Celebration Marks 20th Anniversary
Childcare Options for Parents Night Out in Orlando
Cinderella Castle Update and New Experiences at Magic Kingdom
Orlando’s Magical Dining Celebrates 20 Years
Howl-O-Scream Returns to SeaWorld Orlando
Central Florida Prepares for Rainy Labor Day Weekend
Additional Resources
- WESH: Storms & Strong Rain in Central Florida
- Action News Jax: Breezy Labor Day with Clouds & Showers in North Florida
- WINK News: Southwest Florida Weather Forecast
- CBS News: Next Weather Rain Soaks South Florida
- Fox 35 Orlando: Storm Alert Day – Severe Weather Expected in Central Florida
- Wikipedia: Weather
- Google Search: Florida Weather Patterns
- Google Scholar: Climate Change in Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Meteorology
- Google News: Florida Storm News
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
