ORLANDO, Fla. – Central Florida is bracing for the hottest day of its current heat wave on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, as meteorologists issue a rare Extreme Heat Warning for specific counties. According to Candace Campos, Chief Meteorologist at WKMG ClickOrlando, dangerous heat conditions are expected alongside scattered afternoon storms across the region.
Rare Alerts in Marion and Flagler
While a standard heat advisory remains in effect for most Central Florida counties, Marion and Flagler counties have been placed under an Extreme Heat Warning. This alert is described as rare for the area due to the severity of the conditions expected. The National Weather Service data indicates that heat index values in these specific locations could climb significantly higher than surrounding areas.
Temperatures are forecasted to soar into the mid-90s across much of Central Florida on Tuesday. However, high humidity will push peak heat index readings between 110 and 115 degrees. The most extreme conditions are concentrated in Marion and Flagler counties, where residents face especially dangerous heat levels that make this day the most intense of the current wave.
Severe Weather and Storm Activity
In addition to the thermal risks, atmospheric moisture will allow for scattered showers and storms to develop during the afternoon and evening. The east coast sea breeze is expected to form later than usual, potentially struggling to move far inland beyond the I-95 corridor.
Storms that do develop are generally projected to move eastward and offshore by late afternoon and evening. However, some systems could become strong, producing frequent lightning and wind gusts ranging between 45 and 55 mph. Heavy rainfall is also a possibility as the weather system progresses through the day, as this newspaper reported in Central Florida Issues Rare Extreme Heat Warning as Temperatures Soar.
Outlook for the Rest of the Week
The active summer pattern is expected to continue through early next week, with rain and storm chances running between 60 and 70 percent each afternoon. Increasing cloud cover may help temperatures trend slightly closer to normal later in the week and into the weekend.
Despite potential cooling from clouds, heat remains a persistent concern. Heat index values are expected to continue climbing well into the triple digits, with additional heat alerts possible as the week progresses. The News 6 Weather team continues to monitor these conditions to ensure public safety during this period of extreme weather.
