Special Marine Warning Issued for Waters Off St. Augustine to Flagler Beach

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Jacksonville has issued a Special Marine Warning for the Atlantic coastal waters. The alert was issued at 5:07 PM EST on February 27, 2026, and remains in effect until 6:00 PM EST.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the waters from St. Augustine to Flagler Beach, Florida, specifically the region extending from 20 to 60 nautical miles offshore.

What You Should Do

Mariners are urged to seek safe harbor immediately. If your vessel is caught offshore, immediately secure for heavy weather. Ensure all crew members are wearing USCG-approved Type I life jackets and that nonessential crew remain below decks. Mariners should also deploy jack lines and harnesses if available and check life-saving equipment, including batteries on handheld radios, for readiness.

Expected Conditions

At 5:07 PM EST, radar indicated a strong thunderstorm located 33 nautical miles east of Marineland, or 35 nautical miles northeast of Ormond-By-the-Sea. The storm is moving east at 20 knots.

Expected hazards include:

• Wind gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Suddenly higher waves.
• Potential for sudden waterspouts, which can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas.

Timeline

The warning is effective immediately as of 5:07 PM EST and is scheduled to expire at 6:00 PM EST this evening. The strong thunderstorm is expected to remain primarily over open waters during this window.