Cape Charles, VA – Mariners off the Virginia and southern Delaware coasts are being urged to remain in port as gale-force winds and hazardous seas are expected to develop tonight. The National Weather Service in Wakefield reports a Small Craft Advisory in effect through 6 p.m. EDT Wednesday, followed by a Gale Warning from 6 p.m. through early Thursday morning.
The advisory covers waters from Fenwick Island, Delaware, south to Cape Charles Light, Virginia, extending out 20 nautical miles offshore. Northeast winds 15–25 knots with gusts up to 30 knots and seas 7–11 feet are ongoing today. After sunset, winds are forecast to strengthen to 20–30 knots with gusts near 35 knots, maintaining 8–10 foot seas through the night.
According to the NWS, these strong winds will produce dangerous marine conditions capable of capsizing or damaging small vessels and significantly reducing visibility. Conditions are expected to improve gradually after sunrise Thursday, though rough seas may persist into the morning hours.
Boaters are advised to delay departures, seek safe harbor, and ensure all vessels are properly secured before the gale arrives.
