NWS Key West lifts Special Marine Warning for Straits of Florida after thunderstorm weakens

A Special Marine Warning issued by the National Weather Service office in Key West, Florida, was cancelled early Thursday morning after the thunderstorm that prompted it lost its punch. The warning, which covered the Straits of Florida from Craig Key to Halfmoon Shoal out 20 to 60 nautical miles, had been in effect until 12:15 AM EDT on October 24.

The thunderstorm has weakened and no longer poses a significant threat to boaters.— NWS Key West, FL

According to NWS Key West's social media posts, the warning zone extended across two adjoining marine areas: the Straits of Florida from the west end of Seven Mile Bridge to south of Halfmoon Shoal, and the Straits of Florida from Craig Key to the west end of Seven Mile Bridge — both reaching 20 to 60 nautical miles offshore.

Special Marine Warnings are issued by the NWS for sudden hazardous conditions at sea, typically involving thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts of 34 knots (about 39 mph) or greater, rapidly building seas, frequent lightning, and heavy rain. They are short-duration alerts, often lasting 30 to 90 minutes, targeted at mariners already on or about to enter affected waters.

Why it matters — Boaters in the Straits of Florida near the Florida Keys should know the warning has been lifted, though broader small craft advisories and the possibility of additional thunderstorm activity in the region may still apply.

Reported by weather.gov, beach.report, meteoblue.com