Scattered Storms Expected on Easter Sunday in Central Florida

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Easter Sunday in Central Florida is expected to start dry, but rain chances will climb to 40-50% this afternoon as a mix of sun and clouds gives way to scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some of these storms could turn strong, with the main concerns being gusty winds up to 40-45 mph, small hail, and frequent lightning. The rain chances will continue to increase through the week as a cold front moves in, bringing cooler temperatures and the potential for 1-4 inches of rainfall over the next five days.

Why it matters

The Easter holiday is a major event for many families in Central Florida, and the potential for severe weather could disrupt outdoor plans and activities. The upcoming rainfall is also significant, as the region has been experiencing an ongoing drought, and the additional precipitation could help alleviate those conditions.

The details

The Easter Sunday forecast calls for a warm start to the day, with temperatures reaching the mid to upper 80s inland and lower 80s along the coast. However, as the day progresses, rain chances will climb, and scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop, particularly in the afternoon. Some of these storms could turn strong, with the potential for gusty winds, small hail, and frequent lightning. Along the coast, isolated showers could begin developing around midday as the east coast sea breeze sets up. The storms are expected to become more widespread and push inland, with the highest coverage expected where sea breezes collide later in the day.

• Easter Sunday morning will be the best window to stay dry, with rain chances increasing through the afternoon.
• A strong cold front is expected to move into Central Florida on Monday, bringing a 70% chance of rain as the sea breeze interacts with the approaching front.
• The cold front is expected to stall across the state, keeping rain chances elevated through much of the week.
• Over the next five days, the region could see anywhere from 1 to 4 inches of rain, which would help alleviate the ongoing drought.

What’s next

Residents and visitors in Central Florida should monitor the weather forecast and be prepared to adjust their Easter Sunday plans if necessary, as the potential for severe storms could disrupt outdoor activities. The upcoming rainy and cooler weather pattern is also expected to continue throughout the week, so residents should stay informed about the latest forecasts and any potential impacts.