Eureka, Calif. – Mariners along the Northern California and Southern Oregon coast should brace for gale-force winds and hazardous seas starting Thursday afternoon, with conditions intensifying through Friday night.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Eureka, San Francisco, and Medford, a Small Craft Advisory is in effect for near- and offshore waters until Thursday afternoon, followed by a Gale Warning from Thursday 1 p.m. through 11 p.m. Friday. Affected zones stretch from Point St. George to Point Arena, encompassing both nearshore and offshore waters.
Wind speeds will ramp up from 15 to 25 knots early Thursday to sustained gales of 25 to 35 knots with gusts up to 45 knots, especially off Cape Mendocino and Point Arena. Seas will rise sharply to 10 to 15 feet, creating dangerous conditions for small vessels and commercial craft alike. Visibility may be reduced at times.
Vessels are urged to remain in port or seek safe harbor as steep, wind-driven seas could capsize or severely damage boats. Mariners should secure gear, review float plans, and monitor NOAA Weather Radio for updates.
Warnings remain in effect through Friday evening, and additional advisories may be issued as conditions evolve.
