Special Marine Warning Issued for Northern California Coastal Waters as Severe Thunderstorm Threatens

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Eureka has issued a Special Marine Warning (MAW) for the coastal waters of Northern California. The alert was issued at 4:17 AM PST following radar indications of a severe thunderstorm moving through the region. This alert is classified as having immediate urgency due to the severe nature of the weather conditions.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following maritime zones:

• Coastal waters from Pt. St. George to Cape Mendocino CA out 10 nm.
• Waters from Pt. St. George to Cape Mendocino CA from 10 to 60 nm.
• Waters from Cape Mendocino to Pt. Arena CA from 10 to 60 nm.

What You Should Do

Mariners are urged to move to safe harbor immediately. Boaters should seek shelter until the hazardous weather passes, as gusty winds and high waves are expected. Thunderstorms can produce sudden waterspouts which can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas. Small craft are particularly at risk of capsizing in suddenly higher waves.

Expected Conditions

At 4:17 AM PST, a severe thunderstorm was located approximately 33 nautical miles southwest of Pt. St. George, moving north at 40 knots. Hazards identified by radar include:

• Waterspouts: Possible sudden formation capable of overturning vessels.
• Wind: Gusts in excess of 50 knots.
• Seas: Suddenly higher waves and locally hazardous sea conditions.
• Additional Hazards: Potential for dangerous lightning and heavy rain.

Timeline

The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately as of 4:17 AM PST and is scheduled to remain in effect until 5:15 AM PST on February 22, 2026.