Special Marine Warning Issued for Louisiana and Mississippi Coastal Waters Through 7:00 AM CDT

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in New Orleans LA has issued a Special Marine Warning (NWS/NOAA alert type code: MAW) for several coastal regions and sounds. The alert was triggered by radar-indicated severe thunderstorms moving through the area.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Chandeleur Sound
• Breton Sound
• Coastal Waters from Boothville LA to Southwest Pass of the Mississippi River out 20 nm
• Coastal waters from Pascagoula Mississippi to Stake Island out 20 NM
• Coastal waters from Pascagoula Mississippi to Stake Island Louisiana out 20 to 60 NM

What You Should Do

Boaters are advised to seek safe harbor immediately and remain there until these storms pass. The National Weather Service recommends avoiding these waters due to the risk of capsizing and structural damage. Large hail also poses a threat of injury and damage to personnel and equipment on vessels and oil rigs.

Expected Conditions

At 5:25 AM CDT, a cluster of severe thunderstorms was located 18 nm southeast of Chandeleur Sound, moving east at 30 knots. Expected hazards include:

• Wind: Gusts in excess of 50 knots
• Hail: Large hail
• Additional Hazards: High waves, dangerous lightning, and heavy rain

These storms are expected to remain primarily over open waters.

Timeline

The alert is effective as of 5:26 AM CDT on March 16, 2026. The warning is currently scheduled to expire at 7:00 AM CDT on March 16, 2026.