Melbourne Florida for 02-15-2025

Coastal Waters Forecast: Challenging Conditions Ahead for East Central Florida Mariners

A dynamic weather pattern is set to impact maritime activities along East Central Florida's coastline from Flagler Beach to Jupiter Inlet over the next several days. Mariners should prepare for shifting winds and potentially challenging sea conditions.

Today's forecast indicates southeast winds at 10 to 15 knots with seas ranging from 4 to 6 feet, occasionally reaching 8 feet. A moderate chop is expected on intracoastal waters, with a slight chance of morning showers.

As a warm front lifts north, winds will intensify Sunday, shifting to south and southwest directions with speeds around 20 knots. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect, warning boaters of potentially hazardous conditions. Seas will range between 3 to 5 feet, with occasional waves up to 6 feet.

A significant weather change arrives Sunday night as a strong cold front pushes through the region. Wind directions will dramatically shift from southwest to northwest, with speeds diminishing to 15 knots. High pressure will subsequently track east across the southeastern United States.

The Gulf Stream presents additional challenges, with east to southeast winds of 15 to 20 knots and seas consistently between 6 to 8 feet. The west wall of the Gulf Stream currently lies between 11 and 45 nautical miles offshore, depending on specific coastal locations.

Early next week will bring gradually moderating conditions, with north and northeast winds decreasing to 10 to 15 knots and seas settling to 3 to 5 feet. By midweek, a return to southeast winds is anticipated, accompanied by increased shower activity.

Mariners are advised to monitor updated forecasts and exercise caution, particularly during potential thunderstorm development when winds and waves can quickly intensify.