Special Marine Warning Issued for Southeast Florida Coastal Waters Through Saturday Afternoon

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Miami has issued a Special Marine Warning for the coastal and offshore waters of Southeast Florida. The alert was triggered by radar observations of severe thunderstorms capable of producing waterspouts, large hail, and high winds.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following maritime regions:

• Coastal waters from Jupiter Inlet to Deerfield Beach FL out 20 NM
• Coastal waters from Deerfield Beach to Ocean Reef FL out 20 NM
• Waters from Jupiter Inlet to Deerfield Beach FL from 20 to 60 NM
• Waters from Deerfield Beach to Ocean Reef FL from 20 to 60 NM (excluding the territorial waters of Bahamas)

Impacted coastal locations and nearby waters include Ocean Ridge, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Palm Beach, Hypoluxo, Lighthouse Point, Hillsboro Beach, Gulf Stream, Palm Beach Shores, Highland Beach, South Palm Beach, Sea Ranch Lakes, Manalapan, Briny Breezes, North Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Riviera Beach, Boca Raton, Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Deerfield Beach.

What You Should Do

Boaters are advised to move to safe harbor immediately and remain there until the hazardous weather passes. If caught on open water, stay below deck if possible and keep away from ungrounded metal objects. Mariners should report severe weather to the Coast Guard or the National Weather Service.

Expected Conditions

At 3:43 PM EST, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 19 nm east of Juno Beach to near Highland Beach, moving east at 20 knots. Hazards include:

• Waterspouts: Capable of easily overturning boats and creating locally hazardous seas.
• Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater, which can damage small craft and create suddenly higher waves.
• Hail: Large hail capable of causing structural damage.
• Additional Hazards: Frequent lightning and heavy rain.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 3:45 PM EST on February 28, 2026, and is effective until 4:45 PM EST.