Summer Storms Brewing: Afternoon Showers and Humidity Set to Surge!

Fort Myers, Florida, United States - As the summer heat settles over Florida, residents brace for an afternoon of warm weather and the potential for thunderstorms. According to FOX 4, June 18, 2025, kicks off with morning temperatures in the mid-70s, warm and humid, before soaring to an expected high of 94°F later in the day. This temperature, while above the average of 91°F, is still shy of the record highs set in 1981.

With a 60% chance of rain, storm activity is likely to commence early this afternoon, peaking between 5 PM and 7 PM. As the sky darkens, residents can expect the thunderstorms to wind down after sunset, followed by partly cloudy skies and lows in the mid-70s overnight. Just around the corner, Thursday’s forecast shows a slight uptick in the chances of rain, now sitting at 70%. For the weekend, storm chances hover around 50%, with highs remaining in the low to mid-90s.

Wider Climate Context

This spike in temperature is part of a broader trend impacting weather across the U.S. May saw much of the central U.S. experience cooler temperatures, yet the overall spring (March-May) had temperatures that exceeded averages nationwide. Reports from NOAA highlight that June is expected to deliver well above average temperatures for most of the Lower 48 states, except the southern and central Great Plains where outcomes are unpredictably varied.

Interestingly, the precipitation outlook also indicates an uptick in rainfall in the southern U.S., which ramps up the chances of thunderstorms for Florida. The June outlook predicts that while Arizona and Oklahoma could see above-normal rainfall, some areas, particularly in the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Northern Plains, may face drought conditions due to below-average rainfall. Drought conditions across the U.S. have improved, dropping from 37% to 31% during May, although issues persist in certain regions.

Looking Ahead

The Climate Prediction Center (CPC) plays a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of these weather patterns, offering seasonal outlooks that stretch from 1 to 13 months into the future. As stated by the CPC, their forecasts provide invaluable insights, covering everything from temperature and precipitation anomalies to upcoming conditions in the context of months ahead.

With such a mix of weather brewing, it’s clear that Florida’s climate is as complex as it is dynamic. As residents navigate the humid days and shifting storm patterns, keeping informed through reliable forecasts will certainly come in handy. Downloading weather apps can also ensure you’re always prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.