Weather
East Central Florida Alert: 15-Foot Seas Expected Oct. 23–26
Melbourne, FL – Dangerous beach and boating conditions are expected to intensify along Florida's east central Atlantic coast through Monday, Oct. 26, with waves potentially reaching 15 feet, wind gust
By Audrey Sloan · 2026-10-22T10:42:10.754Z
Melbourne, FL – Dangerous beach and boating conditions are expected to intensify along Florida's east central Atlantic coast through Monday, Oct. 26, with waves potentially reaching 15 feet, wind gusts approaching 45 mph and coastal flooding threatening low lying areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, a high risk of rip currents and rough surf is forecast for all east central Florida beaches until further notice. Officials strongly discourage entering the ocean as marine conditions deteriorate.
Thursday, Oct. 22: Hazardous conditions are already affecting Atlantic waters, where a Small Craft Advisory remains in effect. Offshore seas are running between 6 and 8 feet, with gusty northerly winds.
Most inland locations will remain dry, although portions of the Treasure Coast face a 30% to 40% chance of showers and a marginal excessive rainfall risk.
Friday, Oct. 23: Coastal conditions worsen, with wind gusts reaching 20 to 30 mph and surf building between 5 and 9 feet. Dangerous rip currents remain a major concern.
Saturday, Oct. 24: Stronger northeast winds arrive, with gusts potentially reaching 30 to 40 mph. Surf could build to 8 to 12 feet, while coastal flooding becomes increasingly likely around high tide.
Sunday, Oct. 25: Conditions deteriorate further, with wind gusts potentially reaching 35 to 45 mph and surf heights between 12 and 15 feet.
Gale conditions are forecast over offshore waters, while coastal flooding could affect roads, parking areas, docks and yards.
Monday, Oct. 26: Hazardous conditions persist, with another day of potentially 12 to 15 foot surf and strong coastal winds.
The National Weather Service indicates that existing Small Craft Advisories could be upgraded to Gale Warnings as conditions worsen.
Beachgoers should avoid entering the surf, while boaters should closely monitor marine warnings and consider postponing trips.
Residents in vulnerable coastal neighborhoods should prepare for possible saltwater flooding, especially during morning high tides beginning Saturday.