Sarasota Weekend: Calm Waters and Flooded Peace River

The weather pattern across the region splits into two distinct experiences this weekend.

Sarasota and Manatee counties will see calm conditions after four straight weekends of wind advisories. Boaters can head out without worrying about choppy waters. The forecast calls for light winds from the east and northeast all weekend long.

Friday will be the warmest day, with highs reaching the low 80s. The heat index will sit near 92 degrees. Residents can expect less than a 10 percent chance of rain. Evening temperatures will hover around 76 degrees under clear skies. Saturday brings a weak cold front around midday. This front will introduce drier air but will not cause a spike in wind speeds. Temperatures will start in the low 70s and rise into the low 80s before the front passes.

Sunday offers the most comfortable conditions of the week. Dew points will drop, making the air feel less humid. No rain is expected, and winds will remain calm. This setup is ideal for beachgoers and those using the water.

DeSoto County faces a different reality along the Peace River. The river currently sits at 16.4 feet, which is major flood stage. About 60 homes are in danger due to the high water. First Alert Weather Days are in effect for residents in the affected areas. The water has peaked and will begin to recede, but the process will be slow. Levels are projected to drop to 13 feet by Tuesday. The river will not return to minor flood stage until after Thursday. People living near the river should monitor local updates for any evacuation orders.

The next system that could bring rain will not arrive until Veterans Day on Wednesday. That system carries only a 20 percent chance of showers. The tropics remain quiet with no new development expected at this time.