Weather
Daytona Beach, FL Weather Alert: 10-Foot Surf Through Oct. 20
Daytona Beach, FL – Dangerous ocean conditions are threatening Florida's Atlantic coastline Monday, Oct. 19, as waves reaching up to 10 feet, strong northeast winds and life threatening rip currents c
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-19T10:22:03.467Z
Daytona Beach, FL – Dangerous ocean conditions are threatening Florida's Atlantic coastline Monday, Oct. 19, as waves reaching up to 10 feet, strong northeast winds and life threatening rip currents create serious hazards for swimmers, beachgoers and boaters through Tuesday night, Oct. 20.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, a High Surf Advisory is in effect for Atlantic beaches along the Daytona, Space and Treasure coasts, including Daytona Beach in Volusia County, Melbourne Beach in Brevard County and Vero Beach in Indian River County.
Surf heights of 6 to 10 feet are expected , accompanied by a high risk of dangerous rip currents at all east central Florida beaches.
Forecasters strongly discourage entering the ocean, warning that powerful currents can quickly pull swimmers away from shore. Large breaking waves may also knock people off their feet, even in shallow water.
Moderate beach and dune erosion is another concern, particularly around high tide, which the weather service identifies as occurring approximately between 3 and 4 a.m. and p.m.
Meanwhile, hazardous to dangerous boating conditions are affecting offshore waters.
A Gale Warning covers waters from Flagler Beach to the Volusia Brevard county line, extending 60 nautical miles offshore. Northeast winds around 25 knots, with frequent gusts reaching gale force, are expected in the warned area.
Farther south, a Small Craft Advisory covers waters from the Volusia Brevard line to Jupiter Inlet, with northeast winds of 20 to 25 knots.
Offshore seas could reach 9 to 14 feet, creating dangerous conditions for smaller vessels.
Across east central Florida, northeast wind gusts of 25 to 35 mph are possible Monday, with scattered showers moving inland. Daytona Beach is forecast to reach 78 degrees, while Melbourne could reach 81 degrees.
The National Weather Service urges boaters to remain ashore, secure vessels and monitor marine warnings.
Beach visitors should stay out of the ocean and follow instructions from lifeguards and local beach patrols.