The sea surface temperature is warmest during August (82 deg. F) and coldest
during February (62 deg. F). The greatest variation in sea surface
temperature occurs December through March, which is likely a result of
interactions of the Gulf Stream and cool shelf waters. Eddies from the
Gulf Stream can bring much warmer temperatures to the Frying Pan Shoals while
strong offshore flow in the wake of cold fronts can push the cooler waters
across the shelf farther offshore. The warm temperatures in August and September
help fuel hurricanes that may track off the Southeast United States Coast, while
the sharper sea surface temperature gradient supports Nor'Easter development.
Extremes: Highest Temp.
August 29, 1987 Lowest Temp.
Jan 27, 1985