Orlando, FL – Students and commuters in Central Florida enjoyed a mostly quiet Monday morning, but scattered afternoon storms are expected to return, especially west of Orlando and along the I-75 corridor, forecasters say.
High temperatures will reach the low to mid-90s on Monday, creating a hot and muggy environment before the storms develop.
Storm Chances and Heat Outlook
While Monday brings a moderate risk for storms in the afternoon, storm chances will drop slightly through the middle of the work week. The reduced rain threat, however, will allow temperatures to climb higher, pushing into the mid- to upper-90s on Tuesday and Wednesday.
With humidity factored in, the heat index is expected to approach 110 degrees, raising the risk of heat-related illnesses for those spending extended time outdoors, according to ClickonOrlando.
Tropical Developments in the Atlantic
In the tropics, Invest 97L, located near the Cabo Verde Islands, has a high chance of developing into a tropical system within the next 48 hours. Forecasters believe this disturbance will likely become the first hurricane of the 2025 hurricane season as it moves west-northwest through the Central Atlantic.
Meanwhile, Invest 96L in the subtropical Atlantic has seen its development chances decrease. Meteorologists continue to monitor both systems for potential impacts in the coming weeks.
Back-to-School Weather Impact
As many Central Florida students return to school this week, parents and teachers are encouraged to prepare for hot afternoon dismissals and the possibility of pop-up storms. The combination of high heat and brief heavy downpours can make outdoor after-school activities risky without proper precautions.
School districts are advised to monitor the forecast closely, particularly on days with high heat indices, to ensure safety during sports practices and outdoor events.
Staying Safe in Extreme Heat and Storms
Health and safety officials recommend the following during high heat and storm conditions:
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Take indoor breaks when working or playing outside
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing
- Move indoors immediately if thunder is heard nearby
- Avoid driving through flooded streets during heavy downpours
Even short exposure to extreme heat can result in heat exhaustion or heat stroke, while lightning remains a leading weather-related cause of injury and death in Florida.
How is your family preparing for the hot and stormy back-to-school week in Central Florida? Share your tips with others in the comments section.
