Melbourne Florida for 12-29-2024

Rough Seas Ahead: Coastal Waters Forecast for East Central Florida

A dynamic weather system is set to impact coastal waters from Flagler Beach to Jupiter Inlet, bringing challenging marine conditions and potential hazards for boaters. The National Weather Service Melbourne forecasts significant changes over the next several days.

Today, maritime conditions will be particularly treacherous. South winds ranging 15 to 25 knots will drive seas to 4-7 feet, occasionally reaching up to 9 feet. Scattered showers and potential thunderstorms will further complicate navigation. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect, strongly advising recreational and smaller vessels to exercise extreme caution.

The Gulf Stream presents additional challenges, with winds expected at 20 to 25 knots and seas measuring 5 to 7 feet. The western wall of the Gulf Stream currently sits between 13 and 47 nautical miles offshore, depending on location.

A cold front approaching from the west will trigger these turbulent conditions. The system will gradually weaken and stall over coastal waters on Monday, followed by a reinforcing pair of cold fronts arriving midweek. Winds will progressively shift from southerly to westerly, then northwesterly through the coming days.

By midweek, northwest winds intensifying to 10-15 knots will maintain choppy intracoastal waters. Seas will stabilize around 2-4 feet, with occasional higher waves near potential thunderstorm activity.

Boaters should closely monitor updated marine forecasts and prioritize safety as this dynamic weather pattern develops along East Central Florida's coastline.