Miami Florida for 03-21-2025

Hazardous Marine Conditions Persist Along Florida Coastlines

A potent cold front is creating challenging maritime conditions across Florida's coastal waters, with mariners advised to exercise extreme caution through late Friday.

The National Weather Service Miami forecasts significant wind and wave activity spanning both Atlantic and Gulf coastal regions. Northwest winds reaching 20 to 25 knots are generating substantial seas of 4 to 7 feet, with occasional wave heights approaching 9 feet.

Gulf Stream conditions are particularly treacherous, with winds up to 30 knots and seas ranging between 7 and 10 feet. The Gulf Stream's western wall is currently positioned just offshore from major coastal locations including Fowey Rocks, Port Everglades, Lake Worth, and Jupiter Inlet.

Small Craft Advisories are in effect for multiple marine zones, with most warnings extending through late tonight. Coastal waters from Jupiter Inlet to Ocean Reef and from East Cape Sable to Bonita Beach will experience the most intense conditions.

Wind patterns are expected to shift gradually throughout the day. Northwest winds will transition to northerly directions in the afternoon, with speeds diminishing and seas gradually calming. By Saturday, winds will become lighter and predominantly easterly, with wave heights reducing to 2 to 5 feet.

Intracoastal waters will experience varying chop levels, ranging from moderate to light, depending on the specific location and time of day.

Boaters and maritime professionals are strongly encouraged to monitor updated marine forecasts and exercise prudent navigation strategies during these challenging conditions.