Special Marine Warning Issued for Florida Panhandle and Big Bend Coastal Waters
A Special Marine Warning is in effect until 1:30 PM EST for Florida coastal waters as severe thunderstorms capable of producing waterspouts move through the region.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Tallahassee FL has issued a Special Marine Warning for several coastal and offshore zones along the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend. The alert was issued following radar indications of severe thunderstorms capable of producing waterspouts.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following maritime regions:
- Apalachee Bay and coastal waters from Keaton Beach to Ochlockonee River (out to 20 NM)
- Coastal waters from Okaloosa-Walton County Line to Mexico Beach (out to 20 NM)
- Coastal waters from Mexico Beach to Apalachicola (out to 20 NM)
- Coastal waters from Ochlockonee River to Apalachicola (out to 20 NM)
- Coastal waters from Suwannee River to Keaton Beach (out to 20 NM)
- Offshore waters from 20 to 60 NM covering the areas from Okaloosa-Walton County Line to the Suwannee River
Specific locations impacted include Buckeye Reef, O Tower, K Tower, S Tower, V Tower, Apalachicola, Empire Mica Wreck, C Tower, St George Island, and Marker 24 Barge.
What You Should Do
Mariners are urged to seek safe harbor immediately and remain there until hazardous weather passes. Ensure all persons on board are in a secure location and wearing life jackets. Thunderstorms can produce sudden waterspouts that can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas.
Expected Conditions
- Hazards: Waterspouts and wind gusts of 34 knots or greater.
- Additional Impacts: Frequent lightning, heavy downpours, and suddenly higher waves. Waterspouts can quickly form and capsize boats or damage vessels.
- Storm Movement: As of 11:29 AM EST, a line of severe thunderstorms was located extending from 17 nm northeast of Apalachicola to 42 nm southwest of Empire Mica Wreck, moving east at 30 knots.
Timeline
The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately and is scheduled to expire at 1:30 PM EST (12:30 PM CST) on February 15, 2026. Additionally, a Tornado Watch remains in effect until 3:00 PM EST for the Big Bend, the Florida Panhandle, and adjacent coastal waters.
Source: NOAA Official Notice