Much of Florida’s east coast, including Port Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center, is under a Hurricane Watch as some forecast models have begun a bit of a westward swing for what is now Hurricane Isaias. Portions of the east coast, including Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, are also under a tropical storm warning. A Hurricane Warning is up for portions of the Bahamas, including Disney’s Castaway Cay.
The cone has “jiggled” a bit overnight but has settled back to a point where the central Attractions area remains right around the western edge of the cone. Here’s the early morning thinking (around 5:30 AM) from the local National Weather Service office in Melbourne, FL:
Based on the latest forecast track, the greatest threat for tropical storm conditions this weekend continues to be over the barrier islands of the coastal counties. However, any westward deviation of the forecast track would bring stronger winds farther inland, with the potential for damaging winds and gusts along the barrier islands.
We expect updated guidance from them around noon once they process the 11AM NHC advisory. So far, the wind threat doesn’t look too bad for the Attractions area, but 2-4 inches of rain is possible.
Meanwhile, some key messages from the National Hurricane Center:
Tropical storm conditions are expected with hurricane conditions possible along portions of the Florida east coast beginning Saturday, and a Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch are in effect. Storm surge watches or warnings could be needed for part of this area this afternoon. There is a risk of impacts from winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surge beginning late this weekend along the northeastern Florida coast and spreading northward along the remainder of the U.S. east coast through early next week. Interests along the entire U.S. east coast should monitor the progress of Isaias and updates to the forecast.
Still miles to go before we sleep… Keep Calm and Carry On!