Boaters across Sarasota and Manatee Counties finally get the weekend they’ve been waiting a month for. After four consecutive weekends of wind advisories, conditions turn calm Friday through Sunday. Friday is the warmest day, with highs in the low to mid 80s and a heat index near 92, so plan for plenty of water and shade. A weak cold front arrives around midday Saturday, but it brings only light winds and no new advisories. Sunday delivers noticeably drier air and comfortable temperatures, making it a strong candidate for the best day of the three.
Not everyone on the Suncoast is getting relief, though. In DeSoto County, the Peace River remains at major flood stage of 16.4 feet, with about 60 homes in danger. The river has peaked, but it will recede slowly, dropping to 13 feet by Tuesday and not reaching minor flood stage until after Thursday. Residents along the river should continue monitoring current water levels and following guidance from local officials.
Looking ahead, the tropics are quiet and the next rain chance doesn’t arrive until Veterans Day Wednesday at just 20%. That leaves a long stretch of dry, comfortable weather across the region. Are you taking the boat out this weekend, or are you waiting for Sunday’s cooler air?
