Orlando, FL – Beachgoers and boaters in east central Florida are being warned of hazardous conditions today as the National Weather Service (NWS) in Melbourne has issued a high rip current risk and a small craft advisory.
According to the NWS, all east central Florida beaches — from Flagler Beach through Jupiter Inlet — face numerous, strong, and potentially life-threatening rip currents. Surf heights of 3 to 4 feet are expected, creating dangerous conditions for swimmers. Officials advise residents and visitors to stay out of the ocean and follow the instructions of lifeguards and local beach patrols.
Offshore, small craft operators should exercise extreme caution. Seas are forecast to build between 4 and 6 feet, particularly from Sebastian Inlet to Jupiter Inlet and up through the Flagler Beach area. Mariners are urged to check marine forecasts before heading out and avoid venturing into rough waters if unsure of their vessel’s capability.
Weather across central Florida will otherwise remain mostly calm, with highs in the mid-to-upper 80s and only 20–30% chances of afternoon showers. Still, officials stress that rip currents can develop even on sunny, calm days, making beachgoers especially vulnerable.
The NWS advises anyone caught in a rip current to remain calm, wave for help, and swim parallel to shore to escape.
