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FLORIDA - Florida’s east coast faces hazardous surf and strong rip currents this week as Hurricane Erin spins in the Atlantic Ocean.
Although the storm is expected to remain well offshore, its outer bands are producing rough conditions near the shoreline.
Beachgoers are advised to exercise caution, with swimming strongly discouraged from Monday through Thursday.
Hurricane Erin is moving north of the Caribbean, and parts of Puerto Rico could experience some effects from the storm’s outer winds and rainfall.
Coastal areas in Central Florida are expected to see waves reaching up to four feet and nearshore waters rising to five feet.
Minor beach erosion may occur as conditions intensify midweek.
No formal advisories are in effect as of Sunday, but authorities recommend staying out of the water due to the elevated risk.
Temperatures are forecast to remain above normal, with daytime highs in the lower to mid-90s and heat indices surpassing 100 degrees.
Afternoon and evening showers or thunderstorms are possible, with rain chances rising from 30% around midday to 50% by mid-afternoon.
Meteorologists predict hot, humid days with scattered storms will continue throughout the week, with daily rain probabilities ranging from 50 to 60% in the afternoons.
In addition to Hurricane Erin, the National Hurricane Center is monitoring a tropical wave in the central Atlantic with a 20% chance of development over the next seven days.
Another system off the Carolina coast has a low likelihood of forming in the coming week.
Residents and visitors along Florida’s east coast are advised to monitor surf conditions and local forecasts as Hurricane Erin continues to influence waves and currents through Thursday.