Eureka, California – Boaters along the Northern California coast are facing hazardous conditions as gale-force winds and steep seas take hold from Cape Mendocino to Point Arena.
According to the National Weather Service, a Small Craft Advisory remains in effect until 11 p.m. Thursday, with north winds up to 30 knots and seas as high as 10 feet already creating dangerous passage for smaller vessels. Gale Warnings will follow from late Thursday through Saturday morning, with winds building to 35 knots and frequent gusts to 40 knots between Pt St George and Pt Arena. Offshore seas could climb to 12 feet, especially from Humboldt Bay southward, threatening capsizing and damaging even larger boats.
The most significant impacts are expected between 10 and 60 nautical miles from shore, but harbors in Eureka, Shelter Cove, and Fort Bragg may experience restricted access and choppy conditions. Mariners are urged to remain in port, secure vessels, and delay plans until winds and waves subside.
The National Weather Service advises extra caution for those navigating near the Humboldt and Mendocino coastlines, as reduced visibility and shifting currents could worsen the threat. Hazardous conditions are expected to persist until early Saturday, with additional advisories possible if winds remain strong.
