Beach patrol advise caution as strong winds, rough surf batter Central Florida coast

ORMOND BEACH, Fla. - Beach patrol wants beachgoers to use caution if they visit the coast on Sunday, as a disturbance off Central Florida is causing strong winds and rough surf.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) says that there is a small low-pressure system just off the coast of Central Florida and it is producing strong winds, heavy rain, and rough surf. It will move inland on Sunday.

As a result, a coastal flood warning is in effect from Flagler to Brevard County. Beaches could see life-threatening rip currents with large breaking waves between 6 to 10 feet. In addition, northeast winds are picking up and gusts could reach over 35 mph. 

TRACK THE TROPICS: Visit the FOX 35 Orlando Hurricane Center for the latest in the tropics, including daily updates, live radar, and severe weather alerts

FOX 35 reporter Matt Trezza visited Ormond Beach on Sunday morning and noted that the waves and winds were almost "like we got a hurricane off the coast here." 

Beach patrol is warning beachgoers of the dangerous rip currents that come along with this tropical activity. If you do visit the beach, they caution that you play it safe. Seven people were rescued alone on Saturday and the surf and winds have only gotten stronger.

“It's dangerous out there, for sure,” said surfer David Arnold. “I wouldn't try to get in the water and swim or anything.”

“This is just big and choppy, probably around 10-12 feet, and messy, like a washing machine,” said another surfer, Jeremy Little, “it's just too big and nasty.”

Beach patrol could close the beach access ramps in Volusia County on Sunday and Monday.

“Obviously the rip currents are real bad. We're advising people not get in the water,” said Deputy Chief Aaron Jenkins. "However, we're still flying the red flag, which means there's hazardous conditions.”

Lifeguards were on-duty Sunday even with the bad weather. 

Tune in to FOX 35 Orlando for the latest Central Florida news.