Melbourne, FL – Hazardous surf and flooding threats remain in effect for Florida’s east coast today as lingering impacts from departing Hurricane Imelda combine with moist onshore winds, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne.
Forecasters warn of life-threatening rip currents along all Atlantic beaches from Daytona through the Treasure Coast, with surf heights reaching 6 to 9 feet during this afternoon’s high tide window between 1–4 p.m. Beachgoers are strongly advised to stay out of the water until further notice.
According to the Weather Forecast Office, wave conditions are expected to remain rough for several days, with dune erosion and hazardous boating conditions likely. Nearshore seas could reach 9 feet, while offshore waters in the Gulf Stream may see waves up to 12 feet.
In addition, excessive rainfall poses a flooding risk across east-central Florida through late this week. Coastal counties are forecast to receive 1 to 3 inches of rain, with localized totals up to 5 inches, while interior counties should see lighter amounts. Meteorologists caution that urban and poor-drainage areas may experience flooding.
The heaviest rain is expected from tonight through Thursday, with another round possible over the weekend. Conditions will be slow to improve, and residents are urged to monitor updates at weather.gov/melbourne
