Key West, Florida — A Special Marine Warning is in effect Thursday morning for portions of the Straits of Florida, where strong thunderstorms are producing hazardous conditions over open waters.
According to the National Weather Service in Key West, the warning covers marine zones from the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge to 20 nautical miles west of the Dry Tortugas, extending out 60 nautical miles offshore. The warning remains in effect until 8:30 a.m. EST.
At 7:50 a.m. EST, meteorologists detected a line of strong thunderstorms stretching from 16 nautical miles southwest of Twenty-Eight Foot Shoal Light to 43 nautical miles south of Tortugas Ecological Reserve South. The storms were moving east at approximately 30 knots.
Forecasters warn of wind gusts exceeding 34 knots, along with suddenly higher waves, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours. These conditions can rapidly develop and pose a serious risk to small and unprepared vessels.
The National Weather Service stated that the strongest storms are expected to remain over mainly open waters, but hazardous marine conditions may still affect vessels transiting the region.
Mariners are urged to take immediate precautions, including securing vessels, wearing life jackets, and preparing for steep, fast-building seas and sharply reduced visibility.
Those operating in the Straits of Florida are advised to monitor NOAA Weather Radio and official National Weather Service updates for changes or extensions to the warning.
