Orlando woke up Tuesday to a warm, sticky start, with clear, muggy skies, a light east breeze, and temperatures hovering near 64°F. Afternoon highs are set to climb to about 83°F, but the big headline is not the heat. Forecasters say the surf along east central Florida is downright dangerous, with a high risk of rip currents and strong warnings to stay out of the water.
Afternoon Forecast
The rest of Tuesday looks mostly sunny, with only a slight chance of brief rain showers after 1 p.m. Overall rain chances sit around 20%. East winds will run about 5 to 10 mph, and overnight lows are expected to slip back into the mid 60s.
Beach And Boating Hazards
Rip currents will be a serious concern at all east central Florida beaches, and a Small Craft Advisory is posted for nearshore Atlantic waters early Tuesday. Poor to hazardous boating conditions are likely through much of the week as seas stay choppy and offshore waves continue to build. Seas are expected to run generally 4 to 6 feet, with offshore waters rising toward 5 to 8 feet by Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Melbourne.
What To Expect This Week
Rain chances pick up later in the week as shower and thunderstorm coverage increases. Thursday brings the best shot at storms and stronger gusts, thanks to a strengthening onshore flow. Temperatures stay above normal into the weekend, with mid-80s likely inland and a daily chance of afternoon sea breeze showers or an isolated storm. For more context on the pattern, see our earlier coverage on steamy weekends and dangerous rip currents.
Safety Tips
If you are heading to the coast, stick to lifeguarded beaches and obey the flag system. If a rip current grabs you, stay calm, float to save energy, then swim parallel to the shoreline until you are out of the current before heading back in. Boaters are urged to delay any nonessential trips, secure loose gear, and closely monitor local beach reports and the National Weather Service marine forecast before leaving the dock.
