Portland, OR — Mariners along the Pacific Northwest coast are being urged to use extreme caution Tuesday morning as dense fog and hazardous seas continue to impact coastal waters from Washington to Oregon.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Dense Fog Advisory and a Small Craft Advisory remain in effect until 11 a.m. PDT Tuesday for waters stretching from Cape Shoalwater, Washington, south to Florence, Oregon. Visibility is expected to fall to a quarter mile or less, while seas will range 5 to 7 feet with wind gusts up to 25 knots offshore.
Forecasters noted that small craft are at the highest risk, particularly beyond 30 nautical miles from shore where seas and wind gusts will be stronger. Within 30 nautical miles, conditions may remain slightly calmer but still challenging for less experienced operators.
The National Weather Service in Seattle also reported widespread dense fog across Washington’s coastal waters, including areas from Cape Flattery to Cape Shoalwater. Visibility there may be reduced to 1 nautical mile or less, creating additional risks for navigation.
Authorities urged mariners to avoid travel if possible, especially in smaller vessels. Those who must be on the water are advised to use radar and compass navigation, turn on all running lights, and employ proper fog signals.
The advisories are expected to expire late Tuesday morning, but marine operators are encouraged to check updated forecasts throughout the day as conditions may change.
For the latest information, mariners can visit weather.gov/portland/marine or weather.gov/seattle.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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