Special Marine Warning Issued for Coastal Waters from High Island to Freeport, TX

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Houston/Galveston (League City) has issued a Special Marine Warning (MAW) for coastal and offshore waters. The alert was issued at 9:50 AM CDT on March 8, 2026, and remains in effect until 10:45 AM CDT.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Coastal waters from High Island to Freeport, TX, extending out 20 nautical miles.
• Waters from High Island to Freeport, TX, from 20 to 60 nautical miles offshore.
• Specific locations impacted include Galveston 256.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the warning area are advised to seek safe harbor immediately. Thunderstorms can produce sudden waterspouts that can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas. Small craft should be secured as they could be damaged by briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves. The National Weather Service recommends avoiding these waters until the threat has passed.

Expected Conditions

At 9:49 AM CDT, radar indicated a severe thunderstorm capable of producing waterspouts located approximately 12 miles south of Galveston (near Galveston 221). The storm is moving southeast at 10 knots. Primary hazards include:

• Waterspouts: Capable of overturning vessels.
• Wind: Gusts up to 40 knots.
• Seas: Suddenly higher waves and hazardous conditions for small craft.

Timeline

• Issued: March 8, 2026, at 9:50 AM CDT
• Onset: Immediate
• Expiration: March 8, 2026, at 10:45 AM CDT