Today and continuing through the week, Jacksonville and nearby Northeast Florida beaches are facing increasing coastal hazards as Tropical Storm Imelda passes well offshore in the Atlantic. Although the storm will remain far from land, its effects will be felt strongly along the coast, bringing dangerous surf, strong winds, and a high risk of rip currents.
The National Weather Service in Jacksonville has issued a coastal hazard advisory that highlights several threats to beachgoers and boaters alike:
- 🔺 High Rip Current Risk (Red Alert)
- 🌊 High & Rough Surf
- 💨 Breezy Onshore Winds
- 🌊 Minor Tidal Flooding
The rip current risk is the most immediate concern.
Lifeguards and emergency officials are urging everyone to stay out of the water unless they are at a guarded beach and conditions are deemed safe. Rip currents can form quickly and are difficult to spot — even for experienced swimmers. If caught in one, swimmers should remain calm, float, and swim parallel to the shore to escape.
Beyond the swimming hazards, elevated surf and wind will continue to create dangerous boating conditions, with potential for nuisance flooding in low-lying areas such as boat ramps, docks, and some coastal roadways during high tides. Some minor beach erosion is also possible as wave action increases through the week.
Even though Imelda is not expected to make landfall, storms in the Atlantic can still create life-threatening conditions along Florida’s coastline. This week is a prime example of that danger. Officials urge everyone to follow posted warnings, check local forecasts, and avoid risk:“If in doubt, don’t go out.”
These conditions are expected to persist through the end of the week.
Temperatures and storm chance today
Stepping outside early? Expect it to feel breezy and a bit cool, with temperatures at the bus stop right around 74 degrees. We’re likely to hit 84 degrees by 3 p.m., and while a few quick showers or storms may pop up, it looks like some sunshine could break through at times as well.
Not everyone will get wet today, but it’s smart to be ready for sudden changes, just in case. Most of our local area—from the city to beach to spots like Macclenny—are hanging in the low to mid-70s this morning according to the latest temperature map.