Miami Florida for 03-15-2025

Stormy Seas Ahead: South Florida Maritime Forecast Warns of Hazardous Conditions

Mariners and coastal residents in South Florida should brace for challenging maritime conditions over the coming days. The National Weather Service has issued a Small Craft Advisory for local Atlantic waters and Biscayne Bay, set to take effect this evening and continuing through Sunday.

Southeasterly winds are expected to intensify throughout the day, gradually increasing sea heights across South Florida's coastal waters. Wind speeds will range from 15 to 25 knots, with gusts potentially reaching up to 25 knots. Seas are predicted to build from 2-4 feet today, potentially rising to 5-6 feet by Sunday.

The Gulf Stream presents additional challenges, with southeast winds of 20 to 25 knots anticipated Saturday night through Sunday. Current observations show the Gulf Stream's western wall positioned approximately 6-11 nautical miles offshore from various coastal landmarks including Fowey Rocks and Jupiter Inlet.

Specific marine zones from Jupiter Inlet to Ocean Reef and from East Cape Sable to Bonita Beach will experience increasingly rough conditions. Intracoastal waters are expected to be choppy in exposed areas, with wave periods ranging from 4 to 8 seconds.

Looking ahead, Monday and Tuesday promise continued turbulent weather, with wind directions shifting and potential for scattered showers. Northeast winds Monday night could drive seas to 5-7 feet, occasionally reaching up to 9 feet.

Boaters and marine enthusiasts are strongly advised to monitor ongoing weather updates and exercise extreme caution. The combination of strong winds and building seas creates potentially dangerous conditions for small watercraft.