The First Alert Weather Team is closely monitoring weather developments, forecasting rain and breezy conditions on Thursday as a prelude to an anticipated stormy weekend in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia. Chief Meteorologist Mike Buresh outlined the expected weather patterns:
- Strong Onshore Flow:
- The eastward onshore flow has commenced, causing rough seas and surf until Friday.
- Wind speeds averaging 15-30 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph, leading to beach erosion.
- Surf height projected to reach 8-10+ feet with a very high rip current risk.
- Minor to Moderate Flooding:
- Anticipated at high tide with increased beach impacts over the weekend.
- Potential for severe beach erosion, surf of 10-15 feet, and offshore seas of 20+ feet.
- Scattered and Light Rain Through Friday:
- Rainfall expected to be scattered and mostly light until Friday.
- Occasional heavier bands, particularly favoring St. Johns, Putnam, Clay, and Duval counties.
- Weekend Adverse Impacts:
- Developing storm in the Southeast Gulf of Mexico, moving northeast, will intensify.
- Saturday begins with cloudiness, wind, and rain spreading northward through the afternoon and night.
- East/southeast winds intensify, heavy rain expected with 100% coverage.
- Inland rainfall: 1-3″ west of Highway 301, I-95 corridor: 2-5″, coast and Intracoastal: 3-6″+.
- Elevated risk of severe storms, high winds, isolated tornadoes/waterspouts, especially for Central and South Florida.
- The heaviest rain and severe weather threat diminishes Sunday afternoon, leaving behind gusty winds and scattered lighter showers into early Monday.
Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the situation evolves, with potential impacts including flooding, strong winds, and severe weather conditions over the weekend.