Special Marine Warning Issued for Florida Bay and Upper Keys Waters Through 9:30 PM

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Key West has issued a Special Marine Warning for the waters surrounding the Upper Florida Keys. This alert was triggered by a strong thunderstorm moving through the area, posing an immediate threat to maritime activities.

Affected Areas

The warning encompasses the following geographic regions:

• Florida Bay: Including Barnes Sound, Blackwater Sound, and Buttonwood Sound.
• Hawk Channel: From Ocean Reef to Craig Key out to the reef.
• Straits of Florida: From Ocean Reef to Craig Key out 20 nautical miles.

Specific locations within the warning zone include Whale Harbor, Tavernier Creek, Twin Keys, Tavernier, Steam Boat Channel, Cotton Key, and Molasses Reef Light.

What You Should Do

Boaters are urged to seek safe harbor as quickly and safely as possible. If heavy downpours reduce visibility, mariners should slow down and exercise extreme caution.

Expected Conditions

As of 8:53 PM EST, a strong thunderstorm was located over Conch Reef, moving west at 20 knots. Expected hazards include:

• Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Seas: Suddenly higher waves.
• Additional Hazards: Frequent lightning and heavy downpours.

Timeline

The alert is effective immediately as of 8:53 PM EST and is currently set to expire at 9:30 PM EST on March 4.