Special Marine Warning Issued for Gulf of America and Dry Tortugas Through Late Sunday Night

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Key West has issued a Special Marine Warning for the Gulf of America. The alert was issued at 10:54 PM EDT on March 15 and remains in effect until 11:30 PM EDT. This warning is classified under the NWS alert type code MAW.

Affected Areas

The warning affects the following geographic regions:

• Gulf of America from East Cape Sable to Chokoloskee, 20 to 60 nautical miles out and beyond 5 fathoms.
• Gulf of America including Dry Tortugas and Rebecca Shoal Channel.

Expected Conditions

At 10:54 PM EDT, a strong thunderstorm was located 7 nautical miles northeast of New Ground Rocks Light. The storm is reported to be nearly stationary. Expected hazards include:

• Waterspouts: Possible sudden formation which can capsize boats and create hazardous waves.
• Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater, with potential gusts in excess of 50 knots.
• Seas: Suddenly higher waves and extremely rough sea conditions.
• Additional Hazards: Frequent lightning and heavy, torrential downpours.

What You Should Do

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

• Seek safe harbor immediately as thunderstorms can produce sudden waterspouts.
• Stay low or go below deck to avoid lightning and wind hazards.
• Ensure all individuals on board are wearing life jackets.
• Be prepared for rapidly deteriorating conditions and significantly increased wave heights.

Timeline

The alert is effective as of 10:54 PM EDT on March 15, 2026. The warning and the expected hazardous conditions are currently scheduled to expire at 11:30 PM EDT on March 15, 2026.