Seattle, WA – Mariners off the Washington and Oregon coasts are being urged to take precautions as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple Gale Warnings, Hazardous Seas Warnings, and Small Craft Advisories in effect through Thursday, Oct. 2.
According to the NWS, gale-force winds of 25 to 40 knots and seas reaching 15 to 20 feet are expected Wednesday night into early Thursday. Hazardous conditions are forecast from Cape Flattery down to Cape Falcon, affecting both nearshore and offshore waters, as well as the Strait of Juan de Fuca and San Juan Islands.
The Gale Warnings remain in place until late Wednesday night, with seas expected to stay dangerously high overnight. By Thursday morning, conditions will gradually ease into Small Craft Advisory levels, but waves of 9 to 14 feet and winds of 15 to 25 knots will continue to pose risks for boaters through Thursday evening.
Forecasters warn that the strong winds and steep waves could capsize or damage smaller vessels and sharply reduce visibility. Mariners are advised to remain in port or seek safe harbor until conditions improve.
Hazardous Seas Warnings are specifically in effect for the waters from Cape Shoalwater, Washington, to Cape Falcon, Oregon, late Wednesday into Thursday morning.
The NWS emphasizes that operating in gale conditions requires experience and well-equipped vessels. Those without such preparation are urged to avoid venturing out until advisories expire.
