Mobile, AL – Dense fog and hazardous marine conditions are forecast to impact coastal waters from Alabama to the Florida Panhandle through Thursday afternoon, with serious implications for boaters and nearshore operations.
According to the National Weather Service in Mobile, a Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday, reducing visibility to 1 nautical mile or less across Mobile Bay, Pensacola Bay, Mississippi Sound, and waters extending out 20 nautical miles from Pascagoula, MS to Okaloosa County, FL.
A Small Craft Advisory will follow from 6 a.m. Wednesday through 1 p.m. CDT Thursday, warning of southeast winds up to 25 knots and seas building to 6 feet, particularly hazardous for inexperienced mariners and smaller vessels.
Visibility issues and choppy seas may disrupt port activity and nearshore navigation. Mariners are advised to avoid travel if possible, ensure all running lights are on, and use radar and compass systems for safe passage.
This stretch of the northern Gulf routinely experiences spring fog events, but the combination of fog and elevated wind gusts presents an unusual dual hazard. Caution is urged until conditions stabilize late Thursday.
