Severe Storm Risk for East Central Florida Today – Hail, Damaging Winds, and Lightning Possible

Photo Credit: NWS Melbourne

Staff Reporter  | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)

Published May 24th, 2025

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Florida – The National Weather Service in Melbourne has issued a Level 1 out of 5 risk for severe storms across much of east central Florida this afternoon and evening, with the greatest threat window expected between 3 PM and 9 PM.

Communities from Leesburg and Orlando to Melbourne, Vero Beach, and surrounding areas should remain weather-aware as forecasters warn of potentially strong to severe thunderstorms.

Potential Hazards Include:

• Coin-sized hail, with a 5–15% chance of hail reaching up to 1.5 inches
• Gusty winds between 40–55 MPH, with isolated gusts approaching 60 MPH
• Frequent lightning strikes, which could pose dangers to both people and pets
• A very low potential for a brief tornado

Meteorologists urge residents to seek shelter or safe harbor immediately if threatening weather approaches. Outdoor activities should be adjusted accordingly, and all emergency alerts should be monitored closely throughout the day.

“Even a Level 1 risk can bring impactful weather,” a forecaster with the Melbourne office noted. “These storms may arrive quickly and could become dangerous in a short amount of time.”

For continued updates and severe weather alerts, visit weather.gov/melbourne.

Stay safe, Florida. Know where to go when storms strike.

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Severe Storm Risk for East Central Florida Today – Hail, Damaging Winds, and Lightning Possible

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