A tornado watch was issued for Central Florida on May 2, 2026, covering parts of Brevard and Osceola counties until 6 p.m. Saturday. The National Weather Service reported wind speeds between 40 and 60 mph in Northern Brevard County, with straight-line winds identified as the primary threat. Radar images showed storms moving steadily across I-75 and into the I-4 corridor between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Rainfall rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour were possible in some areas.
Meteorologist Victoria Wisniewski noted that while rotation within storms was being monitored, the immediate concern remained strong winds. The storms moved at 40 mph, with the heaviest rain expected in the I-4 corridor later in the day. In Oak Hill, wind measurements at Scottsmoor reached the upper range of the predicted speeds.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) implemented a ground stop at noon, delaying flights for several hours due to the weather. Travelers were advised to check for updates as conditions changed rapidly. The severe weather warning pushed offshore into the Atlantic by evening, but threats remained for parts of Brevard County.
Residents in the affected areas were urged to monitor weather alerts. The tornado watch remained in effect until 6 p.m., with updates expected throughout the day. No severe weather reports had been confirmed by 2:53 p.m. EDT, but conditions were still developing.