Special Marine Warning Issued for Central California Coastal Waters Including San Miguel and Santa Rosa Islands

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard CA has issued a Special Marine Warning (SMWLOX) for coastal waters off Central California. The alert is effective immediately following radar detection of hazardous weather conditions.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following maritime regions:

• Point Piedras Blancas to Point Sal from 10 to 60 NM
• Waters from Pt. Sal to Santa Cruz Island CA and westward 60 NM
• Areas including San Miguel and Santa Rosa Islands

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected areas are advised to avoid the warning zone. The National Weather Service recommends reporting any severe weather observations to the Coast Guard or directly to the NWS. Small craft should seek safe harbor immediately as sudden high waves and winds can cause significant damage.

Expected Conditions

• Hazards: Waterspouts and wind gusts reaching nearly 50 knots.
• Current Observations: At 12:09 AM PST, radar indicated a shower capable of producing waterspouts located 39 nm west of Point Sal (approximately 45 nm southwest of Morro Bay). The system is moving north at 30 knots.
• Impacts: Waterspouts can create locally hazardous seas. Small craft are at risk of damage due to briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves. The shower is expected to remain primarily over open waters.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 12:10 AM PST on February 16, 2026. The alert is scheduled to remain in effect until 1:15 AM PST on February 16, 2026.