Heavy Rain, Strong Winds Coming to Volusia County

Volusia County will be hit with heavy rains and strong winds over the next week, according to local forecasts. Starting on Monday, the National Weather Service lists a 'marginal risk' for excessive rainfall. Winds on Monday are expected to be sustained at 20 to 25 miles per hour in the late afternoon with a chance of thunderstorms, the NWS says. Wind speeds are expected to reach as high as 45 miles per hour in gusts on Wednesday and Thursday. At least the possibility of rain is expected in Volusia County each day through Saturday. On Monday through Friday potential thunderstorms are also in the forecast. Total rainfall amounts will likely vary throughout Volusia County. Coastal parts of the county should receive two to four inches while inland areas get one to three inches. The isolated areas with the highest rainfall could receive five inches or more. Additional hazards are expected to arise in the form of rough ocean conditions. The Volusia County government predicts building surf throughout the week, culminating in waves that reach 8 to 12 feet in height. This will likely be joined by rip currents up and down the Volusia coast, any one of which could pose a serious safety risk to swimmers. Erosion of the beaches and dunes is also a possibility. "Residents and visitors should use extreme caution if they enter the water and swim only near staffed lifeguard towers," the county government said. "Beachgoers are encouraged to use the Volusia Beaches app for real-time information on ocean conditions, including rip current risk, and to find lifeguard locations. Boaters are encouraged to exercise caution and consider postponing trips during peak conditions." According to AccuWeather, temperatures will drop somewhat during the week. Tuesday's high of 67 is the coolest that will come of the week's rough weather, before highs move quickly back into the high 70s by the end of the week. By next week temperatures are expected to once again be in the low to mid 80s.