Florida – Gray clouds drift offshore as rough surf pounds the sand this morning, pulling water hard and fast back toward the Atlantic. Flags snap in stiff northerly winds. The beach may look calm at a glance, but the ocean is not forgiving right now.
The National Weather Service in Miami has issued a High Rip Current Risk for coastal Miami-Dade and Broward counties through this morning. Dangerous rip currents are capable of sweeping even strong swimmers away from shore. Conditions remain hazardous for anyone entering the water, especially near piers and jetties.
Air temperatures feel cooler than normal for late January, sitting in the low to mid-50s early today with brisk winds adding a chill. Seas remain agitated as cold air pushes south, reinforcing the rip current threat. Beachgoers are urged to stay out of the water. If caught in a rip current, float to stay calm and swim parallel to shore when able.
Later today, sunshine returns, but the risk near the water does not drop quickly. Elevated surf lingers into the afternoon, and lifeguard warnings should be taken seriously. Officials stress swimming near lifeguards only, though avoidance is the safest option during a high-risk period.
Looking ahead, South Florida warms steadily heading toward the weekend. Highs return to near 70 by Thursday and Friday. Shower chances increase Friday night into Saturday, followed by breezy conditions that may keep marine conditions unsettled.
Nationally, the broader weather pattern shows Arctic air plunging deep into the eastern United States while Florida sits on the edge of the chill. That sharp contrast continues to drive gusty winds and coastal hazards across South Florida.
Five-Day Outlook for Miami, Florida
Today: Mostly sunny, breezy, high near 67
Tonight: Mostly clear, low near 54
Thursday: Sunny, high near 70
Friday: Slight chance of showers, high near 70
Saturday: Showers possible, breezy, high near 68
