PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – On Christmas Eve, South Floridians preparing for Nochebuena festivities — complete with lechón and family gatherings — are keeping a close eye on the forecast as moisture builds in the atmosphere, signaling rainier days ahead.
Local 10 meteorologist Julie Durda says the region will enjoy mostly dry conditions today and into Christmas Day, with just a 10% chance of stray showers.
Winds from the north have kept dew points in the “comfortable” range, but an east breeze could slightly shift conditions by this afternoon.
Rain is expected to return late on Christmas night, with heavy downpours forecast during the overnight hours into Thursday. Dirt emphasized that the rain would be beneficial, despite the inconvenience.
“Soak up the sunshine today and tomorrow, but bring those festivities inside once the sun goes down on Christmas,” she added.
6 a.m. report:
According to meteorologist John Gerard, two low-pressure systems — one over the Atlantic and another near Arkansas—are converging, creating a “battleground” over Florida.
While Wednesday and Thursday are expected to see only scattered showers, heavier rainfall is anticipated later in the week.
“Big billowing clouds over the ocean are a sign of things to come,” Gerard said. “We’re transitioning to a rainier forecast, especially starting Thursday.”
As of Monday morning, temperatures across South Florida are mild, with Miami at 77°F, Fort Lauderdale at 75°F, and Key West also at 75°F. Coastal showers are beginning to appear, with isolated rainfall observed in Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale.
On Tuesday an Wednesday night, a few scattered showers are possible, with a 20-30% chance of rain through Tuesday. Umbrellas are recommended, but the real rain won’t ramp up until later in the week.
Rainy Pattern Expected Through the Weekend
The stalled front between the west coast of Florida and the Atlantic will bring increased rain chances from late Thursday into the weekend, according to Gerard. Friday and Saturday are forecast to see the heaviest rainfall, with moderate to heavy downpours possible.
“Rain chances rise significantly Friday through Sunday before we dry out on Monday,” Gerard said.
Rain Outlook
- Monday-Tuesday: Scattered showers, 20-30% chance.
- Wednesday-Thursday: Rain coverage increases slightly.
- Friday-Saturday: Peak rainfall with widespread showers and potential for heavy rain.
- Sunday: Showers taper off.
- Monday: Dry conditions return.
For the hour-by-hour forecast and a live radar, visit this page.
