Melbourne Florida for 12-28-2024

Rough Seas Ahead: Coastal Waters Forecast Warns of Challenging Maritime Conditions

East Central Florida's coastal waters are set to experience turbulent conditions this weekend, with maritime enthusiasts and sailors advised to exercise extreme caution. A developing weather pattern promises challenging sailing conditions from Flagler Beach to Jupiter Inlet.

A high-pressure system currently positioned off the Northeast United States will remain relatively stationary, while a cold front approaches the region late Sunday night. Mariners can expect shifting wind patterns and increasingly rough seas over the next several days.

Today, southeast winds ranging from 10 to 20 knots will generate seas between 4 to 6 feet, with occasional waves reaching up to 8 feet. Wave periods will vary, with primary wave directions coming from the east and northeast. Small craft advisories are in effect, particularly for areas 20 to 60 nautical miles offshore.

Sunday presents even more challenging conditions. Wind speeds are forecasted to increase, reaching 15 to 25 knots from the south and southeast. Seas will remain rough, with wave heights consistently between 4 to 7 feet. Scattered showers and a slight chance of thunderstorms further complicate maritime navigation.

By Monday, winds will shift dramatically to the west and northwest, gradually diminishing in intensity. Seas will calm, dropping to 2 to 4 feet, providing some relief for boaters.

The Gulf Stream's current position adds another layer of complexity, with its western wall located between 13 and 47 nautical miles offshore, depending on specific coastal locations.

Mariners are strongly advised to monitor updated forecasts and exercise prudent seamanship during these potentially hazardous maritime conditions.