Special Marine Warning Issued for Louisiana Coastal Waters as Severe Thunderstorm Approaches
A Special Marine Warning is in effect for coastal waters from the Lower Atchafalaya River to Intracoastal City until 1:45 AM CST, with threats of waterspouts and high winds.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Lake Charles has issued a Special Marine Warning for coastal waters in Louisiana. This alert was issued after radar indicated a severe thunderstorm capable of producing hazardous marine conditions.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following maritime regions:
- Coastal waters from Lower Atchafalaya River to Intracoastal City LA out 20 NM.
- Waters from Lower Atchafalaya River to Intracoastal City LA from 20 to 60 NM.
Specific locations impacted include South Marsh Island 61, Ship Shoal (blocks 224 and 248), and multiple Eugene Island blocks including 224, 105, 325, 243, 100, 189, 206, 306, 208, 295, 273, 251, 296, 252, 175, 257, and 158.
What You Should Do
Mariners are advised to move to safe harbor immediately. Thunderstorms can produce sudden waterspouts that can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas. Small craft could be damaged in briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves. Additionally, a Tornado Watch remains in effect until 2:00 AM CST for the adjacent coastal waters.
Expected Conditions
At 12:47 AM CST, a severe thunderstorm was located near Eugene Island 142, or 29 nautical miles southwest of Point Au Fer Island, moving east at 25 knots.
Primary Hazards:
- Waterspouts: Possible sudden development capable of overturning vessels.
- Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater.
- Waves: Suddenly higher waves and hazardous sea conditions.
Timeline
The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately and is scheduled to expire at 1:45 AM CST on February 15, 2026.
Source: NOAA Official Notice