Santa Barbara, California – Boaters along the Central and Southern California coast face a hazardous night as powerful northwest winds and steep seas hammer the region’s marine zones through 3 a.m. Monday. Dangerous conditions, including winds topping 30 knots and waves up to 11 feet, are expected to make navigation near the Channel Islands, Point Sal, and Point Piedras Blancas especially treacherous.
According to the National Weather Service in Los Angeles, a Gale Warning remains in effect from late Sunday afternoon until early Monday for offshore waters from Point Sal to San Clemente Island, covering San Miguel, Santa Rosa, San Nicolas, and Santa Barbara Islands. A Small Craft Advisory is also in place through late Sunday for nearshore areas, where wind gusts could approach 35 knots and seas will be at their highest overnight.
Mariners are strongly advised to remain in port, secure vessels, or seek safe harbor to avoid capsizing or damage. All small boats, ferries, and even larger vessels could be at risk due to rapidly building seas and strong currents. Those caught offshore should use extreme caution, alter course, and monitor the latest forecasts for updates as conditions could worsen with little notice.
Hazardous marine weather is expected to ease by daybreak Monday, but further advisories could be issued if winds remain elevated. The National Weather Service urges boaters to check updated marine forecasts before heading out and to remain alert for additional warnings.
