Tallahassee, FL – Winds are expected to increase over the Gulf of Mexico later this week, bringing hazardous marine conditions to the Florida Panhandle region, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Tallahassee.
The agency reported Tuesday that Small Craft Advisories are likely between Wednesday and Saturday with a 60–90% chance of winds exceeding 20 knots. Seas are forecast to build offshore to between 5 and 8 feet, creating dangerous conditions for operators of smaller vessels.
According to the NWS, the pattern is driven by strong high pressure to the north and a stalled front to the south, which will enhance winds across the Gulf waters. Mariners could also see gusts approaching 30 knots, with a 10–20% chance of gale-force gusts (34 knots or greater) from Thursday through Saturday.
The agency urged boaters and fishermen to use caution and avoid navigating in hazardous conditions. Even experienced operators are advised to monitor updates closely, as conditions may deteriorate quickly later in the week.
The advisory covers offshore waters near Apalachicola, St. George Island, Cape San Blas, and surrounding Gulf areas, with maximum wind impacts expected between Thursday and Saturday.
This forecast was last updated at 3 a.m. Tuesday, September 30, and additional advisories may be issued as the weather system develops.
