Miami started Saturday under clear skies and swampy, summerlike humidity, with temperatures already sitting in the mid 70s and an easterly breeze. The sun is expected to drive highs into the mid 80s this afternoon, but the beach scene is not exactly gentle: onshore winds are whipping up choppy surf, and lifeguards are urging extra caution. Gusts near 20 mph along the shore will keep the water rough for swimmers and small boats.
Rip Current Risk Through Sunday
According to the National Weather Service in Miami, a Rip Current Statement remains in effect for coastal Broward and coastal Miami-Dade through Sunday evening. “Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore,” the advisory warns, urging beachgoers to swim only near lifeguards and to call or wave for help if they cannot escape a current. Persistent onshore east winds will keep surf choppy and create hazardous shorebreak, so inexperienced swimmers and operators of small craft are advised to stay away from exposed waters.
Afternoon Winds And Weekend Outlook
Forecasters expect mostly sunny skies today with a high in the mid 80s and east winds around 12 to 15 mph, gusting to about 20 mph in the afternoon. Overnight lows should hold near the upper 70s, with only a slight chance of a few isolated showers early Sunday as drier air filters in. Looking ahead, deeper tropical moisture returns early next week, and showers and thunderstorms become more likely by Tuesday and Wednesday.
What To Bring To The Beach
If you are heading out, pack sunscreen and plenty of water, since heat indices could feel like the low 100s inland, and pick a lifeguarded stretch of sand if you plan to swim. Kayakers and small-boat owners may want to postpone nonessential trips; Atlantic seas are expected to stay around 3 to 5 feet offshore and shorebreak can be powerful. Parents should keep close watch on children near the water and follow the lifeguard flag system at public beaches.
More
We flagged this surf and wind pattern yesterday; see our earlier coverage for background and tide timing in Miami’s sneaky rip current setup. We will update if advisories change.
