Gale Warning in Effect for the Gulf of Mexico; Strong Winds, Rough Seas Expected

The National Weather Service has issued a Gale Warning for the Gulf of Mexico from 7 p.m. Wednesday to 1 a.m. The National Weather Service is forecasting winds up to 45 knots and seas as high as 11 feet for Thursday. Mariners are urged to use caution as conditions improve late Wednesday night.  

As a cold front moves across the Gulf of Mexico, bringing with it heavy winds and hazardous sea conditions, a Gale Warning is in force for parts of the region from 7 p.m. on Wednesday until 1 a.m. CDT on Thursday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts northwest winds of 25 to 35 knots with gusts up to 45 knots. According to the forecast, seas will rise by 7 to 11 feet, making bay waters choppy and dangerous for sailors.

"Strong winds will cause hazardous seas which could capsize or damage vessels and reduce visibility," the weather service warned. During the warning period, boaters are advised to stay off open waterways.

By Tuesday evening, the gale-causing cold front is predicted to move offshore, leaving behind a path of powerful gusts and rising seas. Hazardous conditions may worsen as "a few stronger thunderstorms are possible along and just ahead of the front," according to the NWS.

Highs in the 80s are expected today across coastal Texas, but overnight lows will drop to the 60s inland and to the lower 70s near the coast. Late Wednesday night, conditions should start to improve, although once the gales stop, a Small Craft Advisory will still be in force.

Please closely monitor the latest forecasts and advisories from the National Weather Service. For more information on the conditions as they gradually improve late Wednesday night, forecasters advised following the most recent projections.

As the front passes through, Gulf Coast locals and tourists should be on the lookout for rapidly shifting weather.

‍