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Florida Breezes Bring Dangerous Rip Currents
21 Apr
Summary
- Dangerous rip currents pose a threat along Atlantic beaches.
- High winds and low humidity trigger fire weather watch.
- Temperatures remain below average before warming this weekend.
A cold front has settled over the Straits of Florida, generating northeast winds of 20-25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph expected Tuesday. This is creating a dangerous high risk of rip currents along the Atlantic beaches, making ocean swimming unsafe. Small craft advisories are also in effect for boaters in Atlantic and Keys waters due to the rough seas.
The strong winds, coupled with lower humidity, have prompted a fire weather watch and red flag warning for Tuesday in Glades, Hendry, and Collier counties. Southwest Florida is currently under an extreme drought, with relative humidity forecast to drop to 30-35% amidst wind gusts of 20-25 mph.
While a few showers touched the Keys Tuesday morning, drier and sunnier conditions are anticipated. High temperatures will be in the upper 70s, cooler than average. This breezy pattern with highs in the upper 70s is expected to continue through Wednesday, Earth Day, with minimal rain chances. Spotty showers may return on Thursday, with temperatures remaining below average. A slight warming to around 80 degrees is forecast for Friday, with an increased chance of scattered showers. Winds are expected to decrease over the weekend as temperatures climb, reaching the upper 80s by Sunday and Monday.
