Corpus Christi, TX — The Texas Gulf Coast is dealing with two rounds of hazardous marine weather today as dense morning fog gives way to strong winds and rough seas by afternoon. The National Weather Service in Corpus Christi has issued back-to-back advisories, alerting mariners to dangerous conditions both nearshore and offshore.
Weather Overview
A Marine Dense Fog Advisory remains in place through early Thursday morning, covering bays and coastal waters stretching from Port Aransas to Matagorda Bay. The National Weather Service warns that “visibility will drop to one mile or less”, creating extremely challenging navigation conditions for smaller vessels.
Boaters are urged to delay travel when possible, as low visibility can lead to sudden hazards, difficult steering, and an increased risk of collisions. According to the NWS, “mariners are urged to avoid operating in fog and use extreme caution if travel is necessary.”
Dense Fog Reduces Visibility Along the Coast
The thick fog developed overnight as warm, humid air moved across cooler coastal waters. These conditions trapped moisture near the surface, leading to rapidly decreasing visibility before sunrise.
Areas most affected include:
- Matagorda Bay
- San Antonio Bay
- Corpus Christi Bay
- Nearshore Gulf waters out to 20 nautical miles
The NWS notes that fog may shift quickly, with visibility dropping unexpectedly even where skies previously appeared clearer.
Small Craft Advisory Expected This Afternoon
Once the fog lifts, a new hazard will move in. Beginning at 2 p.m. and lasting through midnight, a Small Craft Advisory goes into effect for offshore Gulf waters. This advisory is tied to a passing cold front expected to bring stronger north winds later today.
Forecasters report that winds will increase to “20 knots with gusts up to 25 knots”, producing steep waves and turbulent seas. Offshore waters may see wave heights climbing to “5 to 8 feet”, creating especially dangerous conditions for smaller, less powerful boats.
The NWS emphasizes that “inexperienced mariners should avoid venturing into open waters” until winds ease and seas begin to settle late tonight or early Friday morning.
What’s Driving Today’s Marine Hazard Setup
The combination of early-morning humidity and cooler water temperatures triggered fog formation, while the approaching cold front will rapidly change weather patterns by afternoon. As the front passes, colder, drier air accelerates winds from the north, creating rough seas across the Middle Texas Coast.
These quick changes can catch boaters off guard, especially those planning morning departures before the more severe afternoon conditions develop.
When Conditions Will Improve
Forecasters expect visibility to improve gradually after sunrise as fog lifts. Wind speeds, however, will strengthen later in the day before tapering off after midnight. Seas should begin calming by early Friday morning, offering more favorable conditions for boating and fishing.
Conclusion
From dense fog limiting visibility to strong winds producing choppy seas, the Texas Gulf Coast faces a challenging marine weather day. Mariners should stay alert, follow National Weather Service updates closely, and adjust travel plans to avoid hazardous conditions.
Tell Us Your Experience
How is the weather looking near your part of the coast this morning? Share your local conditions or updates in the comments.
