Santa Barbara, CA – Boaters and mariners along California’s Central and Southern Coast are facing a dangerous marine event Sunday night, with gale-force winds and towering 11-foot seas prompting emergency advisories and posing serious navigation threats through 3 a.m. Monday.
Gale Warning in Effect Across Channel Region
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Los Angeles has issued a Gale Warning for offshore waters stretching from Point Sal to San Clemente Island, including the San Miguel, Santa Rosa, San Nicolas, and Santa Barbara Islands. The warning is active from Sunday evening through early Monday morning, targeting the most vulnerable marine zones in the region.
A Small Craft Advisory is also in effect for nearshore areas where wind gusts may hit 35 knots and waves will be at their steepest overnight.
“Conditions will be hazardous to small craft,” the NWS warned. “Mariners should consider altering plans to avoid these areas.”
Dangerous Seas Could Cap Boats, Damage Vessels
Winds of 30 to 35 knots, combined with seas as high as 11 feet, are creating extremely treacherous conditions for all types of watercraft. The worst of the weather is concentrated near Point Piedras Blancas, Point Sal, and the Channel Islands, where mariners could be caught in rapidly building swells and unpredictable currents.
Experts urge all boaters to remain in port, secure their vessels, or seek safe harbor.
“If you must be on the water, use extreme caution,” the advisory states. “Conditions can change quickly, with little or no warning.”
Overnight Hazard Expected to Ease by Morning
According to NWS forecasts, the gale-force conditions are expected to gradually subside by daybreak on Monday, although officials have not ruled out issuing extended warnings if winds remain elevated into the morning hours.
Mariners are encouraged to check the latest marine forecasts and be alert for updates throughout the night.
Boaters Urged to Monitor Conditions Closely
The NWS emphasizes the importance of real-time monitoring, particularly for those planning trips around the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary or operating ferries and commercial craft.
“High winds and seas can overturn boats, swamp engines, or push vessels dangerously off course,” meteorologists warned.
These conditions are especially hazardous to small boats, kayaks, and open-deck vessels.
Have you ever experienced gale conditions on California’s coast? Share your story in the comments below.
