First Measurable Rain of 2012 

You have to go all the way back to last year to find the last measurable rainfall in central Florida. Alright, that's not saying much since it's only the 10th day of 2012, but it has been about two weeks since more than a trace of rain fell in Orlando. That will change by mid-morning Wednesday, as a weak but moisture laden front moves toward the area.

Late Tuesday evening, the front was already bringing rain to the Florida panhandle with clouds thickening across our western counties. The front and its associated rain will reach our western counties by 5-6 AM, the metro by 10-11 AM, and the beach counties by 1-2 PM. Expect some locally heavy downpours as the front comes through; even though most of the upper level support will lift north of the area, I still expect the front to hold together enough to give most areas at least a quarter inch of rain. In fact, Future Track Nine is printing out almost an inch of rain across parts of Marion and Flagler Counties! Instability will be limited, but there is still the chance of a rumble of thunder or two as the front moves through.

By late in the day Wednesday, the front will clear the coast allowing for a partly cloudy sky. There won't be much of a temperature change behind this first front -- if any. In fact, temperatures will still be in the mid 70s on Thursday. A second front with colder air, but not much moisture, will arrive Friday sending temperatures in the 60s for the weekend.

Have a great night!

Brian Monahan