Wednesday, September 2, 2026 / Coastal waters north to Florence
Gale-force gusts and 15-foot seas are aimed at the Florence coast
The warning runs until 5 p.m. for coastal waters north to Florence, with south winds up to 30 knots and gusts up to 45 knots inside 10 nautical miles.
The water off Florence is not offering a casual Wednesday. The National Weather Service kept a gale warning in place until 5 p.m. for coastal waters from Cape Foulweather to Florence and northward, with the inner waters forecast at 10- to 15-foot seas and south winds of 20 to 30 knots, gusting as high as 45 knots.
The warning is for marine zones, not a blanket inland wind warning for Florence. Farther offshore, the forecast calls for 9- to 14-foot seas and gusts up to 40 knots. The Weather Service says those conditions can damage or capsize vessels and reduce visibility.
Its practical advice is blunt: mariners without gale experience and properly equipped boats should seek safe harbor. Conditions are expected to improve Wednesday night, though elevated seas may linger into Thursday.
Field notes
What changed: The Weather Service confirmed the gale warning early Wednesday and raised the inner-water sea range to 10–15 feet.
Why it matters: The combination of steep seas, 45-knot gusts and reduced visibility can capsize or damage boats.
Who may be affected: Mariners, charter operators, fishing crews and anyone planning small-vessel travel in coastal waters north to Florence.