Easter weekend kicks off warm and breezy along the Gulf Coast, but beach plans could be disrupted by storms and rip current dangers before the holiday wraps up.
If you're heading to the Gulf Coast for Easter weekend, prepare for a little bit of everything — warm sunshine, beach breezes, possible rain, and the threat of dangerous rip currents and storms.
Saturday will begin warm and humid, with early morning temperatures in the 70s and overcast skies stretching from Galveston to Gulfport. Onshore breezes from the southeast will reach up to 20 mph, keeping things mild but also stirring up the surf.
If you're planning Easter egg hunts or beach picnics on Saturday, you’ll likely get them in — clouds will dominate, but widespread rain isn’t expected during the day. Temperatures along the Gulf Coast are expected to reach the low to mid-80s, slightly cooler than on Friday, but still pleasant for outdoor activities.
A larger storm system moving through the desert Southwest will start pushing eastward Saturday night, bringing increased rain chances to Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama by late evening into Easter Sunday. Isolated showers could begin overnight Saturday, with stronger storms possible by Sunday afternoon and evening.
Beachgoers, take note:
Rip current risks are elevated all weekend, especially near jetties, piers, and sandbars. These fast-moving currents pull swimmers away from shore and are a serious hazard. If you’re caught in one, it's vital to stay calm and not fight the current. If possible, swim parallel to shore until you're out of the current, then head back in. Most importantly, if you're in trouble, wave and yell for help.
The storm system’s cold front will drag across the region late Sunday, bringing cooler temperatures and unsettled weather into early next week. Rain and thunderstorms may linger through Monday as the front stalls near the gulf.
While Saturday will be the best day for outdoor Easter fun, those along the Gulf Coast should keep a close eye on the sky and stay informed about changing weather and surf conditions throughout the holiday weekend.
