Special Marine Warning Issued for South Florida Coastal Waters Near Deerfield Beach and Ocean Reef
The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for coastal waters between Deerfield Beach and Ocean Reef after waterspouts were observed east of Sunny Isles.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Miami has issued a Special Marine Warning for the Atlantic coastal waters of South Florida. The alert was issued at 12:23 PM EST on February 17, 2026, following reports of hazardous conditions in the area.
Affected Areas
The warning covers coastal waters from Deerfield Beach to Ocean Reef, FL, extending out to 20 nautical miles. At 12:22 PM EST, a shower producing waterspouts was specifically located approximately 10 nautical miles east of Sunny Isles. The weather system is reported to be nearly stationary.
What You Should Do
Mariners are advised to move to safe harbor immediately until the hazardous weather passes. Waterspouts can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas. Seek safe harbor immediately to avoid damage to small craft. Boaters should report severe weather to the Coast Guard or the National Weather Service, or share reports with NWS Miami on Facebook and Twitter.
Expected Conditions
The primary hazards associated with this warning include:
- Waterspouts: Observed by an off-duty NWS meteorologist.
- Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater are expected.
- Seas: Briefly higher waves and locally hazardous sea conditions that could damage small craft.
The shower is expected to remain primarily over open waters.
Timeline
The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately and is scheduled to remain in effect until 1:00 PM EST on February 17, 2026.
Source: NOAA Official Notice