A weather pattern of increasing wind and rain is anticipated this weekend, particularly as a nor’easter affects the beaches of northeast Florida and southeast Georgia. Saturday is expected to deliver partly cloudy skies along with progressively stronger breezes, with wind gusts potentially reaching up to 30 mph. The region is under a High Rip Current risk, which means beachgoers should exercise caution while enjoying the ocean.
The Marine and Beach hazards are likely to intensify over the weekend, prompting a Small Craft Advisory that will remain in effect through early Tuesday. The developing onshore winds indicate that flooding may become a concern by Sunday and into the early part of next week.
Tonight’s forecast calls for clear and cool conditions, with temperatures dropping to the 50s and 60s. Saturday morning will begin with similar temperatures, transitioning to highs ranging from the 70s to the 80s in the afternoon. Winds from the northeast will vary, reaching speeds of 10-15 mph inland and 15-25 mph along the coast.
As Sunday approaches, the weather will shift to mostly cloudy skies, with rain chances escalating throughout the day. Morning temperatures will remain in the 50s and 60s inland, while coastal areas can expect lows in the 60s to low 70s. By the afternoon, there is a 30-40 percent chance of showers or isolated storms developing, with temperatures peaking in the 70s to low 80s.
The unsettled weather is expected to persist into Monday, bringing a 50-60 percent chance of scattered showers, rounds of rain, and possible isolated storms as winds begin to calm down.
In related news, Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane, with projected impacts affecting Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas in the coming week.
With the changing weather patterns, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions while enjoying the beaches this weekend.