ORLANDO, Fla. — Central Florida is in for another beautiful fall day on Friday before a major change in weather brings gusty winds, building seas and potentially dangerous surf to the coast this weekend.
Friday morning is starting off nice and cool, with temperatures in Orlando matching Thursday’s low of 61 degrees.
The comfortable start won’t last all day. Temperatures will climb through the afternoon, with highs expected to reach the upper 70s and low 80s across Central Florida.
But a much windier pattern is expected to return this weekend, with the strongest winds forecast along local beaches.
As winds strengthen, seas will build and waves of 8 to 15 feet are expected to pound Florida’s coastline.
The rough surf and hazardous marine conditions could create dangerous situations for beachgoers, swimmers and boaters.
Several weather alerts are already in effect for local coastal areas, including coastal flood advisories, small craft advisories, a gale watch and a rip current statement.
A high surf advisory could also be issued as conditions deteriorate.
Anyone planning a trip to the beach this weekend should pay close attention to the latest forecasts and beach warnings.
Powerful waves and rip currents can make entering the water dangerous, even for experienced swimmers.
For boaters, building seas and stronger winds could make conditions hazardous, particularly in exposed coastal waters.
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