Orlando, Florida – Beachgoers in East Central Florida face a moderate risk of rip currents Tuesday as warm, dry weather and gusty conditions persist along the coast. Officials are urging caution near the surf, with waves around 2 to 3 feet and no significant rainfall expected.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, the rip current threat affects all beaches from Daytona to Vero, driven by steady easterly winds and a lingering high-pressure system. Inland highs will reach near 90°F in cities like Leesburg, Orlando, and Kissimmee, while coastal areas like Melbourne and Stuart will top out in the low 80s thanks to a cooling sea breeze.
Drought conditions continue to worsen across the region, with no measurable rain forecast until this weekend. Even then, only isolated showers are possible, with a 20% chance beginning Saturday. Residents are advised to remain vigilant due to increased fire danger inland and heed local burn restrictions.
Swimmers should stay near lifeguards, obey beach flags, and avoid venturing too far from shore. Dry conditions are expected to hold until early next week, with a potential pattern shift by late April.