Special Marine Warning Issued for Southern California Offshore Waters Through 9:00 AM PST
The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for waters off the Southern California coast due to a severe thunderstorm capable of producing waterspouts and 50-knot winds.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued a Special Marine Warning for the offshore waters of Southern California. The alert was issued at 7:55 AM PST on February 16, 2026, after radar indicated a severe thunderstorm in the region.
Affected Areas
The warning applies to the following maritime zones:
- Waters from Pt. Sal to Santa Cruz Island CA and westward 60 nm, including San Miguel and Santa Rosa Islands.
- Outer waters from Santa Cruz Island to San Clemente Island to 60 NM offshore, including San Nicolas and Santa Barbara Islands.
Specific locations impacted include San Nicolas Island and Santa Rosa Island.
What You Should Do
Mariners are advised to avoid the affected areas immediately. Waterspouts can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas. Small craft could be damaged in briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves.
Expected Conditions
At 7:55 AM PST, a severe thunderstorm was located 32 nm west of San Nicolas Island, or 32 nm south of Santa Rosa Island, moving northeast at 20 knots.
- Hazards: Waterspouts and wind gusts to nearly 50 knots.
- Source: Radar indicated.
- Impact: Potential for overturned vessels and suddenly higher waves that may damage small craft.
Timeline
The alert is effective immediately as of 7:55 AM PST and is currently set to expire at 9:00 AM PST on February 16, 2026.
Source: NOAA Official Notice