Special Marine Warning Issued for West Florida Coastal Waters Near Englewood and Tarpon Springs
The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for coastal waters from Bonita Beach to Tarpon Springs due to a severe thunderstorm capable of producing waterspouts.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin FL has issued a Special Marine Warning for the coastal waters of West Florida. The alert was issued at 10:27 AM EST after radar indicated a severe thunderstorm capable of producing waterspouts near Englewood.
Affected Areas
The warning impacts the following geographic regions:
- Coastal waters from Englewood to Tarpon Springs FL out 20 NM
- Coastal waters from Bonita Beach to Englewood FL out 20 NM
- Specific locations impacted include Manasota Key and Englewood.
What You Should Do
Mariners are urged to move to safe harbor immediately until the hazardous weather passes. Ensure all persons on board are in a secure location and wearing life jackets. Waterspouts can form quickly and capsize or damage vessels while creating suddenly higher waves.
Expected Conditions
According to the NWS, the following conditions are expected:
- Hazards: Waterspouts and wind gusts of 34 knots or greater.
- Storm Movement: The storm was located near Englewood and is moving east at 20 knots.
- Additional Impacts: Expect suddenly higher waves, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours.
Timeline
The alert is effective as of 10:27 AM EST on February 28, 2026. The warning is currently set to expire at 11:00 AM EST on February 28, 2026.
Source: NOAA Official Notice