Hurricane Watch for Space Coast as Models Nudge Westward; Don’t Panic.

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!

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