Special Marine Warning for Sebastian Inlet to Jupiter Inlet Issued Until 4:15 PM EST

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Florida Atlantic Coast

A Special Marine Warning is in effect for coastal waters from Sebastian Inlet to Jupiter Inlet as a severe thunderstorm brings 40-knot wind gusts and large hail to the region.

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Melbourne has issued a Special Marine Warning for the coastal waters from Sebastian Inlet to Jupiter Inlet, extending from the shore out to 20 nautical miles. The alert was issued at 3:18 PM EST on February 28, 2026, following radar detection of a severe thunderstorm.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the Atlantic coastal waters from Sebastian Inlet to Jupiter Inlet 0-20 nm. Specific locations expected to be impacted include:

  • Fort Pierce Inlet
  • Fort Pierce Ocean Park
  • Fort Pierce North
  • Surfside Park
  • Fort Pierce

What You Should Do

Mariners are urged to move to safe harbor immediately until the hazardous weather passes. Ensure all persons on board are wearing life jackets. Frequent cloud-to-water lightning is occurring with this storm; if caught on open water, stay below deck and avoid ungrounded metal objects. Remember that lightning can strike more than 10 miles away from a thunderstorm.

Expected Conditions

At 3:17 PM EST, a severe thunderstorm was located 7 nautical miles west of Fort Pierce South (or 9 nautical miles northwest of White City), moving east at 20 knots.

Primary Hazards:

  • Wind gusts up to 40 knots
  • Large hail (potential for injury and boat damage)
  • Suddenly higher waves
  • Frequent lightning
  • Heavy downpours

Timeline

The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately and is scheduled to expire at 4:15 PM EST on February 28, 2026.

Source: NOAA Official Notice