Galveston, TX –
Mariners along the Upper Texas Gulf Coast are urged to prepare for dangerous marine conditions as the National Weather Service in Houston/Galveston issues a Gale Warning from 7 p.m. Tuesday through 1 a.m. Thursday.
The warning includes Galveston Bay, Matagorda Bay, and the Gulf waters from High Island to Matagorda Ship Channel, extending up to 60 nautical miles offshore. Forecasters expect northwest winds of 25–35 knots, with gusts reaching 45 knots and seas building to 7–11 feet.
The gale conditions will arrive in the wake of a strong cold front, moving offshore Tuesday evening. The front may be accompanied by a few isolated thunderstorms, followed by rapidly strengthening winds overnight.
According to the NWS, mariners should avoid open waters, remain in port, and secure vessels before conditions deteriorate. Even after the gale subsides, a Small Craft Advisory will likely remain in effect into late Wednesday night due to lingering rough seas.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve by Thursday morning as winds weaken and seas subside.
