Severe Weather Expected in Florida This Weekend
ORLANDO, Fla. — A storm system developing in the Gulf of Mexico is expected to bring tropical storm-like conditions to Florida this weekend. Wind, heavy rain, localized flooding, and coastal concerns are all in play. Gov. Ron DeSantis has activated the Florida State Guard in preparation for the severe weather.
Saturday evening through and Sunday morning have been designated as First Warning Weather days due to the potential for severe storms. The storms are expected to exit by Sunday afternoon.
The latest update from the Storm Prediction Center has parts of Central Florida under a level 2 out of 5 severe weather threat, with tornadoes being the biggest concern. Right now, the tornado threat looks to start Saturday evening and continue through Sunday morning.
Heavy rain in a short period of time will lead to flooding across parts of Central Florida. About 2-5 inches of rain will be expected. Winds this weekend could gust as high as 50-55 mph.
A high surf advisory is in effect through 10 a.m. Sunday, with breaking waves reaching as high as 13 feet in the surf zone. A coastal flood warning is also in effect through 1 p.m. Saturday, with significant coastal flooding expected. Life-threatening rip currents are also expected.
The forecast is expected to return to normal at the beginning of next week when the storm system moves up the east coast of the U.S.
Residents are advised to stay updated with the most accurate Central Florida weather forecast by downloading the WESH 2 News app and staying tuned to WESH 2 online and on-air.