Severe Thunderstorms, Hail, Tornado Risk For Central Florida

ORLANDO, Florida – The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued a Severe Weather Outlook for East Central Florida on Monday, March 16, 2026, due to a slight risk of severe thunderstorms.

Scattered strong to severe thunderstorms are anticipated across the Florida Peninsula, influenced by an approaching strong cold front producing showers and storms.

Heavy rainfall could lead to localized flash flooding over portions of Florida through mid-week.

The NWS warns of the following hazards during the peak storm hours:

• Isolated strong to severe winds, with gusts potentially damaging up to 60 mph or higher
• Quarter-sized hail
• Small chance of a couple of tornadoes
• Frequent lightning strikes
• Locally heavy rainfall that could cause urban, rural, and small stream flooding, despite ongoing drought conditions

According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, the strongest storms are expected in the afternoon and evening from approximately 1 PM to 10 PM EDT, with a slight risk for severe storms continuing into Tuesday.

Additionally, there is a moderate risk of rip currents at all central Florida Atlantic beaches today. A strong cold front will cross tonight, bringing gusty northwest winds and wind chill values dropping to the upper 30s in portions of Lake and Volusia counties late tonight.

Orlando Weather Forecast

Today
A quiet morning, then scattered strong to severe thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High near 85°F. Chance of precipitation is high. South wind around 10-15 mph.

Tonight
Severe thunderstorms ending, becoming mostly cloudy. Low around 50°F. Gusty northwest winds.