Orlando woke up cloudy and on the cool side Friday, with temperatures near 64°F at Orlando International Airport. That early chill will not last long. Skies trend mostly sunny and highs climb to around 81°F this afternoon, while east-northeast winds crank up and turn noticeably breezy along the coast. Boaters should expect rougher conditions, and beachgoers need to watch for strong currents as deeper tropical moisture sneaks back in over the weekend, pushing up storm chances.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
By midday and afternoon, winds are expected to run around 10 mph, with coastal gusts in the 20 to 25 mph range, plenty to kick up choppy conditions on the water. The National Weather Service Melbourne has Small Craft Advisories posted for parts of the nearshore waters and is urging mariners to use caution. Nearshore seas should build to roughly 4 to 6 feet today, with even higher waves out in the Gulf Stream.
Beach And Boating Hazards
A High risk of life-threatening rip currents is in effect today for central Florida Atlantic beaches, and heading into the surf is strongly discouraged where no lifeguards are present. The National Weather Service reminds swimmers to follow basic rip current safety: do not try to swim directly against the current, and instead move parallel to the shoreline until you are out of it. If you spot someone in trouble, signal for help or alert a lifeguard rather than attempting a risky rescue on your own.
Weekend Storms And Next Week
Moisture starts ramping up on Saturday, March 14, then really piles in on Sunday, March 15. That means scattered showers Saturday with rain chances around 40%, and showers and thunderstorms likely Sunday with coverage near 70%. A few storms this weekend could get on the strong and gusty side, capable of producing 40 to 50 mph wind gusts, small hail, and locally heavy downpours. Isolated spots could pick up 2 to 4 inches of rain.
A strong cold front is expected to sweep through late Monday, March 16, into early Tuesday, March 17, with much cooler air pushing in behind it. For timing tweaks and any stronger storm concerns, keep an eye on updates from the National Weather Service Melbourne.
What To Do
If you are planning to be on the water, consider postponing any nonessential trips and make sure loose gear is tied down or stowed. If the plan is a beach day, follow the posted flag system and swim only near lifeguards, even if the sun is out and the waves look inviting. For some recent local context, check out our March 9 update on the late-week front. Whatever your plans, check the forecast before you head out and have a quick plan in mind for where you will go if thunderstorms suddenly roll in.
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