Eureka, Calif. – A powerful series of Pacific storms is driving dangerous marine conditions from northern California to Washington through Thursday, with multiple Gale Warnings in effect and seas building above 20 feet midweek. Mariners and coastal interests are being urged to remain in port and secure vessels ahead of rapidly deteriorating weather.
According to the National Weather Service Ocean Prediction Center, strong southerly winds of 30 to 45 knots will intensify from Monday night through Wednesday across offshore zones from Point St. George, California, to Cape Flattery, Washington. The most severe conditions are expected Tuesday night into Wednesday when seas may reach 17 to 22 feet, especially off the Oregon coast. Outer waters will experience the brunt of the storm, though inner waters 60 to 150 nautical miles offshore will also see dangerous surf and steep seas exceeding 15 feet.
Winds are forecast to briefly ease late Wednesday night before another round of southerly gales arrives Thursday. Mariners should anticipate rapidly shifting conditions, including squalls, poor visibility, and the potential for hazardous cross-seas. Offshore operations, small craft, and bar crossings will be particularly risky.
The NWS warns that individual waves could be more than twice the significant wave height, posing a serious capsizing risk for smaller or poorly ballasted vessels. Coastal residents are advised to avoid jetties and exposed beaches, where sneaker waves and strong rip currents are likely through the week.
Those with coastal travel or shipping schedules should monitor updated forecasts and delay plans where possible. Power disruptions and coastal flooding cannot be ruled out as low-pressure systems track northward.
