Special Marine Warning Issued for Coastal Waters from Cape Mendocino to Point Arena
A Special Marine Warning is in effect until 2:45 AM PST for Northern California coastal waters as a severe thunderstorm capable of producing waterspouts moves through the region.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Eureka has issued a Special Marine Warning for coastal waters off Northern California. The alert was issued after radar indicated a severe thunderstorm capable of producing waterspouts and hazardous maritime conditions.
Affected Areas
The warning applies to the following geographic regions:
- Coastal waters from Cape Mendocino to Pt. Arena CA out 10 nm
- Waters from Cape Mendocino to Pt. Arena CA from 10 to 60 nm
Impacted locations include the open waters northwest of Fort Bragg and south of Cape Mendocino.
What You Should Do
Mariners are advised to move to safe harbor immediately until the hazardous weather passes. Thunderstorms can produce sudden waterspouts that 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 2:13 AM PST, a severe thunderstorm was located 45 nautical miles south of Cape Mendocino, or 37 nautical miles northwest of Fort Bragg, moving east at 45 knots.
- Hazards: Waterspouts and wind gusts to 34 knots.
- Hail: Potential for hail up to .75 inches.
- Impact: Potential for overturned vessels and damaged small craft due to sudden wind and wave increases.
Timeline
The alert is effective as of 2:13 AM PST and is currently set to expire at 2:45 AM PST on February 17, 2026.
Source: NOAA Official Notice
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