The National Weather Service in Miami issued a Spanish-language Special Marine Warning for Lake Okeechobee on Sunday afternoon, urging boaters and lakeside visitors to get to safe harbor as severe storms rolled across the lake. The advisory, which called out sudden high winds, heavy rain, small hail and frequent lightning, was in effect through 5:30 PM EDT.
According to a Special Marine Warning issued by the National Weather Service in Miami, the Lake Okeechobee zone was specifically highlighted, with Liberty Point, Clewiston, Pahokee, Buckhead Ridge, Calusa, Moore Haven and Canal Point listed as locations of concern. Radar showed a line of strong thunderstorms moving through the area, and the product warned of wind gusts of 34 knots or greater and small hail, urging mariners to head for safe harbor until the storms passed.
Aviso Especial Marítimo incluye Lago Okeechobee hasta las 5:30 PM EDT
— NWS Miami (@NWSMiami) X
What the warning means
A Special Marine Warning is a short-fuse alert used when hazardous conditions such as thunderstorm gusts, hail or waterspouts are imminent or already occurring on the water. It tells mariners to seek shelter immediately, according to the National Weather Service's marine guidance. These warnings are reserved for severe, short-duration weather that can whip up dangerous seas and rapidly changing conditions for small craft.
Waterspouts and why Okeechobee is vulnerable
Lake Okeechobee and other South Florida waters are prone to waterspouts during the rainy season, and the NWS notes that these spinning funnels can form quickly and overturn small boats. The combination of a shallow, warm lake and summertime thunderstorms makes rapid development of gusty storms and brief hail a recurring hazard for recreational boaters and marina operators.
How to respond
Boaters are advised to head for safe harbor, avoid exposed metal fixtures during lightning, secure loose gear and stay below deck if caught on open water, guidance that is reflected in the NWS bulletin. When possible, mariners are encouraged to report severe weather to the U.S. Coast Guard or to the National Weather Service so forecasters can refine warnings and help protect others on the water.
For the original advisory and any updates, see the National Weather Service in Miami's Special Marine Warning and the agency's post on X. Stay off piers and docks until conditions calm and check local marine forecasts before heading back out.
