NWS: Hazardous waters for small craft through Wednesday morning

Mariners should expect choppy coastal waters through Wednesday morning, forecasters say.

An offshore high pressure system coupled with an approaching low pressure system is tightening the pressure gradient, producing stronger winds, according to the National Weather Service.

In response, the National Weather Service has issued a Small Craft Advisory for coastal waters out 20 nautical miles from Sandy Hook to Cape May until noon Wednesday.

Mariners should be prepared for wind gusts up to 30 knots and seas between four and seven feet (highest Tuesday night) according to the bulletin.

“A Small Craft Advisory means that wind speeds of 25 to 33 knots and or seas of five feet or greater are anticipated,” the bulletin advises. “Winds and seas within these ranges are expected to produce hazardous conditions for small craft. Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid navigating in these conditions.”