Calm before the storm: Florida residents prepare for threat of Subtropical Storm Nicole
Subtropical Storm Nicole is expected to approach the east coast of Florida on Wednesday night or early Thursday as a hurricane.
Florida prepares for Subtropical Storm Nicole
Florida is beginning preparations for Subtropical Storm Nicole. FOX Weather's Brandy Campbell reports.
PALM BEACH, Fla. – Floridians are bracing themselves as Subtropical Storm Nicole is expected to strengthen into a hurricane later this week.
A state of emergency was declared in Florida as Nicole is forecast will bring significant rain, wind and coastal flooding to the Sunshine State.
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Floridians are already seeing ocean waves growing in size and becoming choppier.
According to a lifeguard on Palm Beach, rip currents will be growing stronger and jellyfish will be more prevalent throughout the rest of the week. He advised beachgoers to listen to lifeguards and follow precautionary measures.
![A lifeguard sets up a flag warning beachgoers of rip currents in Palm Beach, Florida.]()
Image 1 of 2A lifeguard sets up a flag warning beachgoers of rip currents in Palm Beach, Florida. (Brandy Campbell)
![Beachgoers enjoy the choppy waves in Palm Beach, Florida.]()
Image 2 of 2Beachgoers enjoy the choppy waves in Palm Beach, Florida. (Brandy Campbell)
The stronger waves, in addition to the high tide and full moon, are leading many residents in low-lying areas to prepare for potential flooding.
On the other hand, the extra churn in the water has enticed surfers to take advantage of the waves.
"The waves should be pretty fun tomorrow and everything, so yeah, we're excited," said one Palm Beach surfer.
A Hurricane Watch has been issued for the east coast of Florida from the Volusia/Brevard County line to Hallandale Beach, including Lake Okeechobee.
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A Hurricane Watch means that sustained winds of at least 74 mph are possible in the watch area. A watch is typically issued 48 hours before the anticipated first occurrence of tropical-storm-force winds (39-plus mph), conditions that make outside preparations difficult or dangerous.
Nicole comes as many Floridians are still recovering from the devastation left behind by Hurricane Ian in late September.