Miami Florida for 02-15-2025

Coastal Waters Forecast Signals Shifting Conditions for Florida Mariners

Marine enthusiasts and coastal residents can expect dynamic weather patterns across Florida's coastal waters this weekend, with significant wind and wave shifts on the horizon. A moderate to fresh southeasterly wind flow will dominate local waters today, gradually transitioning to south-southeasterly winds by tonight.

The Gulf Stream's current position reveals interesting navigation details, with its western wall located approximately 16 nautical miles northeast of Fowey Rocks and progressively closer to shore near Jupiter Inlet. Mariners should pay close attention to these geographic nuances.

Small craft operators are advised to exercise caution, particularly in coastal waters from Jupiter Inlet to Ocean Reef and along the Gulf coast. Wind speeds are anticipated to range between 10 to 20 knots, with occasional gusts reaching 25 knots. Seas will fluctuate between 2 to 5 feet, occasionally spiking to 6 feet in some areas.

A significant weather system approaches Sunday night into Monday morning, with a cold front expected to sweep through the region. This frontal passage may bring scattered showers and potentially dramatic wind direction changes. Winds will likely shift from southeasterly to southwestern, and eventually western, creating challenging maritime conditions.

Lake Okeechobee and Biscayne Bay will experience similar wind patterns, with moderate chop anticipated. Intracoastal waters will see varying levels of wave activity, ranging from light to moderate chop depending on location and time of day.

By midweek, winds are forecasted to stabilize with predominantly easterly and southeasterly directions, offering more predictable sailing conditions for marine enthusiasts.