Orlando residents and visitors may need to hold onto their hats today as a dry and breezy weather pattern settles in. The National Weather Service Melbourne, FL, reported that winds sustained around 15 knots with gusts up to 25 knots. The coast can expect the strongest wind gusts, per the morning forecast.
The National Weather Service Melbourne, FL, also warns of a prolonged onshore flow, causing hazardous surf and boating conditions. These conditions are expected to persist through the weekend and potentially beyond. Despite the expected dry conditions, minor coastal flooding remains possible, mainly during the high tide in the daylight morning hours from today until Sunday. Marine stratocumulus clouds, squashed by a strong subsidence inversion, should limit significant vertical growth and, hence, any precipitation—however, a light shower can't be entirely out of the question on Friday.
Looking ahead, high pressure over the eastern U.S. will ensure that the northeast wind flow persists, although it will gradually weaken. According to the National Weather Service, moisture levels are expected to increase over the weekend, suggesting a higher likelihood of showers, especially along the coast. A few may reach the interior before dissipating. Also, a slight temperature uptick is forecasted, with early next week possibly seeing mid-80s in the interior regions.
Boaters should exercise caution. Ongoing small craft advisories reflect the moderate to fresh northeasterly winds stretching across all local Atlantic waters. The National Weather Service advises that nearshore Volusia and Brevard waters might improve tonight and Friday, potentially downgrading advisories to caution. However, conditions remain unfavorable due to northeast winds between 15-20 knots and rough seas. The small craft advisory extends through Saturday afternoon for the southern and offshore waters, including the Gulf Stream, with indications that advisories could persist even longer as winds and seas are expected to increase over the weekend.
