Special Marine Warning Issued for Apalachee Bay and Florida Coastal Waters

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Tallahassee FL has issued a Special Marine Warning (MAW) for coastal waters in the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend region. The alert was issued following radar indications of severe thunderstorms capable of producing waterspouts.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions out to 20 nautical miles:

• Apalachee Bay
• Coastal Waters from Keaton Beach to Ochlockonee River FL
• Coastal Waters from Ochlockonee River to Apalachicola FL

Specific locations identified in the path of the storm include K Tower and Marker 24 Barge.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected areas should take the following precautions immediately:

• Move to safe harbor until the hazardous weather passes.
• Ensure all persons on board vessels are in a secure location and wearing life jackets.
• Be prepared for suddenly higher waves and hazardous seas.
• Report any severe weather observations to the Coast Guard or the National Weather Service.

Expected Conditions

At 8:07 AM EDT, a line of severe thunderstorms was located from 9 nautical miles west of St. Marks to near Apalachicola, moving east at 40 knots. Expected hazards include:

• Waterspouts: These can form quickly and capsize or damage vessels.
• Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Additional Hazards: Frequent lightning and heavy downpours.

Timeline

The Special Marine Warning is effective from 8:07 AM EDT until 9:30 AM EDT on March 12, 2026. Additionally, a Tornado Watch remains in effect for the Big Bend Florida area until 9:00 AM EDT.