Melbourne, Florida – Beachgoers and boaters across east central Florida should brace for dangerous conditions starting Monday, as Hurricane Erin, now a Category 1 storm, intensifies offshore and sends hazardous surf toward the coast.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, the threat of life-threatening rip currents will begin before wave heights significantly increase, with all area beaches facing a high risk by early Monday. While the storm’s track is expected to remain well east of Florida, marine and coastal impacts are considered likely through at least Thursday.
Surf heights are forecast to reach 5 to 8 feet north of Cape Canaveral and 3 to 6 feet to the south, with peak conditions expected late Tuesday through early Thursday. Minor beach and dune erosion is also possible during this period. Boaters should prepare for nearshore seas of 6 to 9 feet along the northern coast and up to 12 feet offshore, creating elevated risk for small crafts and unprepared vessels.
Residents and tourists should avoid entering the surf, monitor local advisories, and heed warnings from lifeguards. Conditions may worsen quickly, especially in the early part of the week.
Hurricane-related impacts may shift depending on Erin’s path. Stay updated at weather.gov/melbourne.
