Severe Weather Threatens Central Florida with Heavy Rain, Cooler Temps

ORLANDO, Fla. — A strong cold front is set to sweep through Central Florida on Sunday, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds, and the potential for severe weather. The National Weather Service has issued a marginal risk for stronger thunderstorms, particularly in the northwestern parts of the region.

FOX 35 Meteorologist Laurel Blanchard warned that the main impacts will be felt on Sunday, with temperatures dropping significantly by Monday. “We’re looking at highs around 20 degrees cooler, with temperatures in the 50s to start off the workweek,” Blanchard said. The cold front is expected to bring widespread rain, with some areas receiving up to 2 inches of precipitation.

The primary threats include damaging straight-line winds, which could gust up to 30 mph, and the possibility of brief tornadoes. “We cannot rule out the potential for a quick spin-up, especially along the I-4 corridor,” Blanchard added. The rain is expected to taper off by Sunday night, but the cooler air will linger into the week.

Looking ahead, another low-pressure system forming off the coast of Texas could bring even more disruptive weather. This system, combined with arctic air from the weekend’s cold front, may result in freezing rain and icy conditions in parts of North Florida. “Areas of our WOGX counties could see the potential for icing and freezing rain,” Blanchard noted. However, it is still too early to determine the exact extent of the freezing potential.

Residents are advised to stay updated on the latest weather forecasts and prepare for potentially hazardous road conditions. “Be prepared for roads to be very slick, especially along the I-75 corridor,” Blanchard said. The First Warning Weather team at WESH 2 News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the cold front progresses.