Special Marine Warning Issued for Coastal Waters from Tarpon Springs to Suwannee River Through 7 PM

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin FL has issued a Special Marine Warning for coastal and offshore waters. This alert is effective immediately following the detection of severe thunderstorms capable of producing hazardous maritime conditions.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following regions:

• Coastal waters from Tarpon Springs to Suwannee River FL out to 20 nautical miles.
• Offshore waters from Tarpon Springs to Suwannee River FL from 20 to 60 nautical miles.

Specific locations impacted by these storms include Ozello, Crystal River, Hernando Beach, Aripeka, Bayport, and Yankeetown.

What You Should Do

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

• Move to safe harbor immediately and remain there until the hazardous weather passes.
• Ensure all persons on board vessels are in a secure location and wearing life jackets.
• Monitor weather updates closely; waterspouts can quickly capsize boats and may become tornadoes if they move onshore.

Expected Conditions

At 6:00 PM EST, radar indicated severe thunderstorms located along a line extending from 6 nautical miles south of Ozello to 48 nautical miles west of Anclote Key. The storm system is moving east at 10 knots.

Primary Hazards:

• Waterspouts: Capable of damaging vessels and creating suddenly higher waves.
• Wind: Gusts in excess of 34 knots.
• Additional Threats: Frequent lightning and heavy downpours.

Timeline

• Effective Period: 6:00 PM EST to 7:00 PM EST, February 15, 2026.
• Related Alerts: A Tornado Watch remains in effect for northern Florida until 8:00 PM EST.