A hot and muggy weekend is forecast for Central Florida with heat indices that could climb over 100, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne.
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While highs Friday-Sunday will be around 90, the heat index, or feels-like temperatures, for the region will range from 100-105, according to the NWS forecaster’s discussion on its website. Overnight lows will be in the mid to upper 70s.
“A Moderate to localized Major HeatRisk is forecast across much of east central Florida,” forecasters said.
The NWS “HeatRisk” advises people to drink plenty of water, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, avoid outdoor activities during the warmest parts of the day and stay in an air conditioned location, especially during the day.
For Saturday and Sunday, seasonably hot conditions are forecast to continue with afternoon highs in the low to mid 90s and peak heat index values between 102-107 degrees, which are just below the NWS threshold for a heat advisory.
“Residents and visitors are encourage to stay hydrated and practice heat safety this weekend,” forecasters said.
An increase in moisture with strong daytime heating and boundary collisions will bring scattered to numerous showers and lightning storms as well. Rain chances range from “50-70% south of Orlando and west of I-95. Further north, coverage remains more scattered ranging 30-50% west of I-95,” the NWS stated.
“Organized stronger storms are generally not expected, but gusty winds of 45-50 mph will be possible in vicinity of isolated storm downbursts,” forecasters said. “Otherwise, weak steering flow may contribute to periods of locally heavy rainfall and minor/ nuisance flooding in slow moving storms.”
Similar rain chances are in store Saturday and Sunday.
At the beach, there is a moderate risk for dangerous rip currents all weekend long.
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“Heed the advise of lifeguards, beach patrol flags and signs,” the NWS warned.