Orlando weather: Big afternoon warm-up, later sunsets and a look ahead at the Christmas forecast

TODAY: 

ORLANDO, Fla. - After a cool start Monday morning, temperatures will warm-up in a big way this afternoon. 

Highs will be a degree or two either side of the 80 degree mark. We'll remain dry today as well, with a mix of sunshine and clouds.

LOOKING AHEAD: 

Our rollercoaster ride of temperatures is well underway, with highs soaring into the low 80s for Tuesday. 

Our stretch of warm and dry weather won't last long, though. 

Big changes will unfold Wednesday, as a cold front moves in. This front will increase our rain chances Wednesday, with scattered showers likely for many. 

As the rain exits, temperatures will take a tumble. 

Highs will turn dramatically colder as soon as Thursday morning, with lows falling back into the 30s and 40s and highs struggling to reach the low 60s! 

The cold snap won't last too long, as highs look to rebound into the 70s by Saturday.

SUNSETS COMING LATER:

Orlando residents who are tired of early sunsets – daylight is slowly beginning to stretch out again. 

While December 21 marks the winter solstice and the shortest day of the year, sunset times are already creeping later, a trend that will continue until June.

The shift comes as sunrises are also delayed, meaning days remain short overall for now. But for those craving evening light, the darkest days are officially behind us.

CHRISTMAS LOOK AHEAD:

Looking ahead to Christmas, Orlando is shaping up for a warm holiday, with forecasts 16 days out suggesting mild temperatures. 

While exact predictions may evolve, the pattern aligns with the region's historically balmy Decembers.

Residents planning holiday activities can likely expect the season’s festive spirit without the need for heavy coats. Stay tuned for updates as the holiday nears.