Eureka, CA – The National Weather Service in Eureka has issued a series of Gale and Storm Warnings for the Northern California coastal waters, with hazardous marine conditions expected from Wednesday morning through Thursday afternoon.
According to the NWS, winds may reach 40 to 50 knots with seas building between 10 and 14 feet offshore from Point St. George to Point Arena, including areas near Cape Mendocino. The first Gale Warning begins Wednesday morning, followed by a Storm Warning from 7 p.m. Wednesday to 3 a.m. Thursday, and another Gale Warning continuing through Thursday afternoon.
Forecasters warn that the very strong winds and steep seas could capsize or severely damage vessels. Visibility may also be reduced in squalls and heavy spray. The National Weather Service strongly advises all mariners to remain in port, secure vessels, and avoid open waters until conditions improve late Thursday.
The warnings cover both nearshore and offshore waters extending up to 60 nautical miles from the coast. Conditions are expected to gradually ease by Thursday evening as winds subside and seas begin to lower.
