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What Is a Special Marine Warning?

If you spend any time cruising along coastal waters, you know the weather is constantly changing and could become deadly in a matter of minutes. A small army of professional weather forecasters monitor coastal weather conditions to keep the public safe by issuing critical severe-weather warnings. There are also special wireless tools you can use to receive these alerts while on the water, which could save your life.

National Weather Service
- The National Weather Service is an agency of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration whose mission is to provide timely weather information in order to protect life and property. It also has the unique challenge of forecasting the weather over marine areas. Since a severe storm can quickly turn a boating trip into a threat to life, it̵7;s important to know about these hazards and stay informed.
Marine Weather
- Mariners face unique dangers from severe weather, including rough seas, high winds, waterspouts, large hail, dangerous lightning and blinding rain. Rough waters due to high winds can cause a vessel to capsize. Moderate-to-heavy rain may result in zero visibility, making it impossible to navigate. In general, small craft are the most vulnerable to even moderate thunderstorms. Rapidly changing weather conditions means there may be little to no warning of severe weather.
Special Marine Warning
- Special marine warnings are issued if there is a high possibility or current occurrence of waterspouts, heavy thunderstorms, winds greater than 39 miles per hour, large hail or tornadoes. The warning is usually in effect for less than two hours and will include information such as the expected weather, locations impacted and expiration time. Mariners should take these warnings seriously and react immediately to safely secure their boats and passengers. If a warning is already in effect, avoid going out on the water until conditions settle.
Receiving Warnings
- For mariners, the most recommended method to receive weather warnings is the use of a marine radio with NOAA Weather Radio function. NOAA Weather Radio is a wireless broadcast network capable of activating an audible alert to boaters. Since marine radios are waterproof, they are the most appropriate tool while out on the water. Marine radios can be purchased from retailers, such as Bass Pro Shops and Cabela̵7;s. Other methods of receiving warnings include email, text messages and phone calls. If you are close enough to the shore, you may be able to use your cell phone to receive email and text alerts from your local media outlets for free.

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