Melbourne, Fla. – Dangerous surf and life-threatening rip currents are expected to continue along Florida’s east coast as Hurricane Erin’s swells push toward shore through Thursday. The National Weather Service warns that conditions will be hazardous for swimmers, surfers, and boaters, with the greatest impacts hitting Brevard, Volusia, and Indian River counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, breakers of 6 to 9 feet will peak between Tuesday night and early Thursday, with offshore seas building as high as 15 feet. High tide cycles between 5 and 7 a.m. and p.m. will make currents especially strong, and forecasters emphasize that anyone entering the water faces a serious drowning risk.
Small craft advisories remain in place for the Atlantic as seas rise to 7 to 10 feet nearshore. Inlets are expected to be especially dangerous during outgoing tides, posing risks to boaters attempting to cross bars or channels.
Winds out of the northeast will gust up to 25 mph, pushing onshore showers inland through the afternoon. Isolated lightning storms may also develop, adding to travel hazards.
Beachgoers are urged to avoid swimming and heed all red flag warnings. Boaters should remain in port until seas subside. Advisories remain in effect through Thursday, with additional updates possible if Erin’s swells persist into the weekend.
