Wind, coastal flooding and dangerous surf expected through the weekend for Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia

Coastal Flood Warnings are expected to take effect today along the Atlantic coast and parts of the Intracoastal Waterway and St. Johns River basin. Moderate to potentially major flooding is possible near high tide, and downpours along the Northeast Florida coast could make flooding worse if they arrive during a high-tide cycle.Strong north-northeast winds will pick up this afternoon and tonight. Gusts of 40 to 45 mph are possible along the coast, with breezy conditions continuing into early next week. Scattered showers and a few thunderstorms are also possible, mainly in coastal Northeast Florida, the St. Johns River basin and the Ocala National Forest. Locally heavy rain could continue through Sunday night.Beach conditions will remain dangerous, too. There is a high risk of rip currents at area beaches for the next several days, and major beach erosion is likely around high tides this weekend and into much of next week.Watches and warningsCoastal Flood Warning: Expected to begin today