Medford, OR – Mariners off the Oregon coast are being warned of treacherous conditions this weekend as the National Weather Service (NWS) in Medford issues a Small Craft Advisory and Hazardous Seas Watch for areas from Florence to Point St. George, California.
According to the NWS Marine Weather Message, seas are expected to rise to 9 to 14 feet at 17–18 seconds beginning Friday evening through Saturday night, prompting the Small Craft Advisory. A stronger system arriving Sunday afternoon through late Sunday night could bring very steep and hazardous seas up to 19 feet, triggering the Hazardous Seas Watch.
The advisory covers all coastal waters extending up to 60 nautical miles offshore, including popular fishing zones near Cape Blanco and Port Orford. Winds may reach 25 knots, creating extremely challenging conditions for smaller vessels.
“Very steep and hazardous seas could capsize or damage vessels,” the Weather Service cautioned, urging mariners to reconsider plans and remain in port until conditions improve. The agency warned that bar crossings could become “especially hazardous” during the height of the storm.
Boaters can view detailed hazard zones and forecast updates on the National Weather Service site: https://go.usa.gov/x6hks.
