Oxnard, California – Boaters off the Southern California coast face an immediate waterspout threat as severe thunderstorms push east across the Santa Barbara Channel and nearby coastal waters.
According to the National Weather Service in Oxnard, a Special Marine Warning remains in effect until 1:30 a.m. PST for the East Santa Barbara Channel, inner waters from Point Mugu to San Mateo Point, and outer waters extending 60 nautical miles offshore. Radar at 11:32 p.m. detected a line of severe thunderstorms stretching from near Point Mugu to 27 nautical miles south of Santa Rosa Island, moving east at 35 knots.
Wind gusts could exceed 50 knots, and waterspouts are possible. The storms are impacting waters near Malibu, Catalina Island, Santa Cruz Island, Santa Rosa Island, San Nicolas Island and the Los Angeles and Long Beach harbors.
Waterspouts can overturn small vessels and create locally dangerous seas. Sudden high winds and steep waves may cause structural damage to boats and increase the risk of capsizing.
Mariners are urged to move to safe harbor immediately and remain there until the storms pass. Conditions are expected to improve after 1:30 a.m., but additional warnings may be issued if new storms develop.
