Melbourne, Florida – Dangerous surf and boating conditions are already impacting Florida’s Atlantic coast this morning, with strong rip currents and rough seas creating life-threatening hazards for beachgoers and mariners.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, a high risk of rip currents is in place along all Atlantic beaches from Daytona Beach through the Space and Treasure Coasts. Surf heights are reaching 4 to 6 feet, with numerous strong rip currents expected throughout the day.
Offshore, conditions are even more hazardous. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect from Flagler Beach to Jupiter Inlet, where seas are building between 7 and 9 feet and north to northeast winds are increasing to 20 to 25 knots. These conditions make navigation dangerous, especially for smaller vessels.
Onshore, breezy to windy conditions will continue, with gusts between 25 and 35 mph strongest along the immediate coast. Isolated to scattered showers may develop along the coastline late this morning into the afternoon, with rain chances between 20 and 30 percent.
Beach officials urge swimmers to stay out of the water or remain near lifeguards, as rip currents can quickly pull swimmers away from shore. Hazardous marine and surf conditions are expected to persist through today, with additional advisories possible if conditions continue.
