The National Weather Service warned of a consistent pattern of scattered showers and storms for Orlando today, with a gradual decrease expected late into the weekend and early next week. Boaters, particularly in Volusia County and offshore Brevard County waters, are facing rough conditions with a High Risk for rip currents along area beaches. Mariners should heed the Small Craft Advisory in effect starting this morning until this evening, signaling turbulent seas and strong gusts.
A northerly wind flow, bolstered by a stalled front south and high pressure along the eastern U.S., is culpable for the gusty to breezy conditions sprawling over Central Florida. According to the National Weather Service Melbourne FL, folks north of Okeechobee County and along the Treasure Coast can anticipate winds to rattle up to 15-20 mph, gusting between 25-30 mph. The Volusia County coast takes the brunt of blowy circumstances, probable at speeds of 20-25 mph and gusts that may reach up to 30-35 mph.
Looking ahead to next week, the outlook is less blustery, thanks to discrepancies in the distance and movement of a low-pressure system developing off the southeast U.S coast, which now seems less likely to constrict the area's pressure gradient. The forecast reflects this with the expectation of tamer north-northeast winds around 10-15 mph come Monday and Tuesday. Meanwhile, residents can welcome slightly cooler temperatures, with daytime highs marginally below the norm in the mid to upper 80s and evening lows creeping into the low 70s or even the upper 60s in spots northwest of I-4.
For those planning to hit the waters, the National Weather Service warns of lingering buoyant waves. Poor to hazardous boating conditions will exist today across the Volusia County and offshore waters of Brevard County, the forecast discussion states. By Sunday, the sea state should calm slightly, but nearshore Volusia County waters may still be choppy, particularly during afternoon flights of wind. The forthcoming week brings easterly winds and a predicted resurgence of showers and storms, as moisture trickles back into the region and ramps up rain chances once again.
