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Central Florida Braces for Thunderstorms and Cooler Weather

Dramatic storm clouds looming over Orlando, signaling thunderstorms.

News Summary

Central Florida residents are preparing for strong thunderstorms and cooler temperatures this weekend. Rain is expected to start on Saturday, with an increase in storm activity overnight, especially in areas south of Orlando. A cold front will linger through Sunday, bringing higher moisture levels. The week ahead is projected to maintain humidity and daily rainfall, with scattered storms anticipated. A Marginal Risk for severe weather has been issued, raising concerns about gusty winds and heavy downpours. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as summer weather patterns evolve.

Orlando, Florida – Central Florida residents are preparing for a wave of strong thunderstorms and cooler temperatures this weekend as meteorologists forecast active weather patterns. Rain is expected to begin on Saturday, May 31, 2025, with a notable increase in storm activity overnight, particularly in areas south of Orlando.

The weather system moving through the region will result in showers and thunderstorms with the most intense period anticipated between the early morning hours of 4 AM and continuing until 9 PM. As temperatures drop, the air will become increasingly moist, contributing to the likelihood of rainfall. A cold front is projected to linger south of the area on Sunday, June 1, maintaining higher moisture levels.

Morning temperatures on Sunday are expected to be in the low 70s, with highs reaching the upper 80s by the afternoon. While rain chances are lower on Sunday compared to Saturday, scattered showers and thunderstorms remain possible, especially to the south of Orlando. The region can expect a further return of moisture on Monday, with high temperatures again in the upper 80s and afternoon storms likely.

Looking ahead, the week between June 2 and June 8 is projected to keep Central Florida in a pattern of increased humidity and daily rainfall. Tuesday is expected to see additional scattered storms, primarily in the afternoon and evening. Similar temperatures in the upper 80s can be anticipated throughout the week. Midweek moisture levels are expected to rise, leading to an anticipated uptick in rain and storm chances by Thursday and Friday.

The National Weather Service has issued a Marginal Risk for severe weather across Central Florida during this period, which is categorized as a level 1 out of 5. The primary concerns include potential for gusty winds, quarter-sized hail, heavy downpours, and lightning. Most thunderstorms are expected to diminish by midnight on Saturday, but warm and humid overnight conditions will prevail, with temperatures in the low to mid-70s.

Prior to the arrival of the cold front on Saturday, the weather will see high temperatures around 85 degrees with overnight lows of about 71 degrees. The cold front is expected not only to provide cooler conditions but also to contribute to breezy weather across the region.

Moreover, beginning midweek, a surge of Saharan Dust is predicted to sweep across areas off the coast of Africa. This dust could impact air quality and exacerbate allergies for some residents. On the brighter side, the dust may lead to more vibrant sunrises and sunsets if conditions align properly.

As summer approaches, weather patterns typically shift towards the classic setup for afternoon thunderstorms. Hence, Central Florida residents should remain mindful of this trend as they anticipate potential rain and storm activity daily through the coming week. With forecasters closely monitoring developments, local residents are urged to stay prepared and informed about the evolving weather conditions.