Special Marine Warning Issued for Tidal Potomac: Wind Gusts Over 34 Knots Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Sterling, Virginia (NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC), has issued a Special Marine Warning for portions of the Tidal Potomac. The alert was triggered by surface observations indicating a wind shift associated with an approaching cold front.

Affected Areas

The warning encompasses the following maritime regions:

• Tidal Potomac from Indian Head to Cobb Island, MD
• Tidal Potomac from Cobb Island, MD, to Smith Point, VA

Specific locations impacted include Yeocomico River, Breton Bay, Saint Clements Bay, Piney Point, Mouth Of The Potomac River, Saint Inigoes Creek, Maryland Point, Nanjemoy Creek, Port Tobacco River, Colonial Beach, Smallwood State Park, Cobb Island, Point Lookout, Tall Timbers, Swan Point, Coltons Point, Mathias Point, U.S. 301 Nice Memorial Bridge, Saint George Island, and the Wicomico River.

What You Should Do

Mariners and boaters in the affected area should move to safe harbor immediately. The expected conditions include gusty winds and high waves that can capsize small craft or throw occupants overboard.

Expected Conditions

At 6:10 AM EDT, a cold front was located along a line extending from 7 nm northeast of Port Tobacco River to Maryland Point to 8 nm southwest of Aquia Creek, moving east at 30 knots.

• Hazards: Wind gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Wind Shift: Winds are expected to change direction abruptly, coming out of the west.
• Impact: Suddenly higher winds and waves pose a significant risk to small vessels.

Timeline

The alert is effective as of 6:11 AM EDT on March 12, 2026, and is currently set to expire at 7:45 AM EDT.