Early Tuesday turned tense on the water for Palm Beach County, as the National Weather Service in Miami issued a Special Marine Warning for the offshore stretch between Jupiter Inlet and Deerfield Beach. The alert covered both the 20 to 60 nautical mile offshore band and the coastal waters out to 20 nautical miles, warning of fast-building thunderstorms with wind gusts above 40 knots, marble-size hail and pounding surf that could spell trouble for small craft.
Where the Warning Hits
The Special Marine Warning specifically called out the corridor from Jupiter Inlet to Deerfield Beach, covering marine zone AMZ670 for waters 20 to 60 nautical miles offshore along with the adjacent coastal zones, so boats running well offshore were very much in the danger zone. That stretch takes in coastal communities such as Ocean Ridge, Lake Worth, Juno Beach, Hypoluxo and Palm Beach. The National Weather Service points mariners to its official listings of affected zones on the NWS Miami marine page.
Hail, Sudden Gusts and Nasty Seas
The alert stated that the Special Marine Warning would remain in effect until 6:45 a.m. EDT and flagged thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts greater than 40 knots, small hail and dangerous high surf. Mariners were urged to “seek a safe harbor and take precautions,” according to NWS Miami. Conditions like that can quickly overturn small boats, slash visibility and whip up very steep, choppy seas. Officials also asked mariners to report any hazardous conditions they encounter to the Coast Guard or the National Weather Service.
Staying Safe and Staying Updated
Small-craft operators, commercial crews and recreational boaters were advised to stay in port or move to safe harbor until the rough weather eases, and to follow any guidance from local port authorities and the Coast Guard. Beachgoers were told to expect higher surf and a boosted rip-current risk along Palm Beach County beaches, and to take lifeguard warnings seriously. For the most current zone-by-zone forecasts and any changes, extensions or cancellations to the advisory, check the NWS Miami marine page.
NWS Miami continues to post any new alerts or updates on its official channels, and local marine safety agencies may share additional guidance. We will keep watching those official sources and update as conditions change.
