Special Marine Warning Issued for Florida Coastal Waters Near Suwannee River and Keaton Beach
The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for Florida coastal waters until 11:45 AM EDT due to wind gusts exceeding 34 knots and high waves.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Tallahassee FL has issued a Special Marine Warning (SMWTAE) for coastal waters along the Florida panhandle and Big Bend region. The alert was issued on March 12 at 10:17 AM EDT following radar-indicated showers moving through the area.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following marine zones:
- Coastal waters from Suwannee River to Keaton Beach out 20 NM
- Waters from Suwannee River to Apalachicola FL from 20 to 60 NM
- Specific locations impacted include Horseshoe Beach.
What You Should Do
Mariners are advised to move to safe harbor immediately as gusty winds and high waves are expected. All individuals on board vessels should ensure they are wearing life jackets to prepare for suddenly hazardous conditions.
Expected Conditions
According to the NWS, radar indicated a line of showers extending from 24 nm east of Buckeye Reef to 46 nm south of C Tower, moving southeast at 20 knots. Hazards associated with this system include:
- Wind gusts of 34 knots or greater
- Suddenly higher waves
- Frequent lightning
- Heavy downpours
Timeline
The warning is effective immediately as of 10:17 AM EDT on March 12, 2026. The alert is currently scheduled to expire at 11:45 AM EDT.
Source: NOAA Official Notice
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