Late Showers Set to Cool Down a Toasty Thursday in Orlando

Morning: A Balmy and Breezy Start

Orlando residents woke up to a relatively mild and humid morning this Thursday, March 12, 2026. As the sun rose at 7:38 AM, temperatures hovered in the high 60s, quickly climbing as the morning progressed. The early hours are characterized by significant cloud cover, which is expected to persist throughout the day. Commuters can feel a noticeable breeze coming in from the east-southeast at approximately 14 mph, adding a touch of movement to the heavy Florida air. Humidity levels are sitting near 44%, making the early hours feel slightly warmer than the actual thermometer reading.

Afternoon: Toasty Temperatures Peak

By midday, the heat is expected to intensify across the City Beautiful. We are projecting a high of 87°F during the mid-afternoon hours. Despite the heavy cloud cover, the UV index remains at a moderate level of 3, meaning those spending extended time outdoors at local theme parks or outdoor shopping centers should still apply sunscreen. The cloud deck will provide some relief from direct solar radiation, but the combination of high temperatures and rising moisture will make for a typical 'sticky' Central Florida afternoon. The wind will maintain a steady pace, occasionally gusting, which may provide some comfort for those dining alfresco downtown.

Evening and Night: Umbrellas Needed for the Commute

The primary weather story for today develops as we head toward sunset at 7:32 PM. While the majority of the daylight hours will remain dry, the probability of precipitation jumps to 50% as we transition into the evening. Showers are forecast to move into the Orlando metropolitan area late tonight. These are not expected to be severe thunderstorms, but steady rainfall could impact late-night travel and outdoor events. The total accumulation is predicted to be light, around 0.03 inches, but the damp conditions will linger into the early morning hours of Friday.

At a Glance: Today’s Weather Stats

• High Temperature: 87°F
• Low Temperature: 67°F
• Wind Speed: 14 mph (East-Southeast)
• Rain Chance: 50% (primarily late evening)
• UV Index: 3 (Moderate)
• Sunrise/Sunset: 7:38 AM / 7:32 PM

In summary, it is a day of transition for Orlando. The heat of the afternoon will eventually give way to much-needed rain. According to recent data from the National Hurricane Center, there are currently no tropical threats in the Atlantic, ensuring that today’s rain is purely a result of local moisture and frontal movements. Residents are advised to keep a light rain jacket or umbrella handy if they plan to be out past 8:00 PM.