Tropical Storm Watch

Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for the Southeast Florida coast from Jupiter Inlet southward through Craig Key, including Florida Bay for the potential for tropical storm force winds but no part of Florida is within the 5 day cone of error. South Florida and the rest of the Atlantic Coast could see some fringe or indirect impacts later this week.

The official forecast from the National Hurricane Center shows Sandy passing over Jamaica this afternoon, eastern Cuba late tonight and tomorrow morning, and then through the Bahamas Thursday night and Friday. Some weakening is expected beyond 72 hours as Sandy encounters increasing wind shear as it moves into the Bahamas.

An expanding wind field could create windy conditions for portions of Florida. Sustained winds of 15-25mph may begin Wednesday for the South Florida and along the Florida East Coast and continue through Saturday. During this time, wind gusts could reach as high as 50-60 mph, primarily at the immediate coast or just offshore.

Waves may result in beach erosion, coastal flooding and a high rip current risk lasting as long as the middle of next week. Breakers as high as 8-10 feet at the coast and 20 feet offshore are forecast.

SMALL CRAFT ADVISORIES are already in effect for most of the Florida coastal waters and A RIP CURRENT STATEMENT has been issued for the coastline of Northeast Florida from Nassau County through Flagler County.