Special Marine Warning Issued for Biscayne Bay and Coastal Florida Waters

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Miami has issued a Special Marine Warning (VTEC: /O.NEW.KMFL.MA.W.0034.260315T1837Z-260315T1900Z/) for coastal waters in South Florida. The alert was issued at 2:37 PM EDT following radar detection of a severe thunderstorm.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Biscayne Bay
• Coastal waters from Deerfield Beach to Ocean Reef FL out 20 NM
• Specific locations impacted include Pacific Reef, Elliott Key, Soldier Key, Triumph Reef, and Biscayne Bay.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected areas should take the following actions:

• Move to safe harbor immediately and remain there until the hazardous weather passes.
• Be aware that thunderstorms can produce sudden waterspouts which can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas.
• Report any severe weather observations to the Coast Guard or the National Weather Service in Miami via phone or social media.

Expected Conditions

At 2:37 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Pacific Reef, moving north at 20 knots. The following hazards are expected:

• Waterspouts: Capable of overturning boats and creating dangerous sea conditions.
• Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Waves: Small craft could be damaged by briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves.

Timeline

The alert is effective immediately as of 2:37 PM EDT on March 15, 2026. The warning is currently scheduled to expire at 3:00 PM EDT.