Gale Warning In Effect for Grand Strand Waters Through Friday Morning
The National Weather Service has issued a Gale Warning for Grand Strand coastal and offshore waters through 6:00 AM EDT Friday, September 25, 2026.
Why this matters locally
Rough seas up to 15 feet and wind gusts up to 40 knots pose severe hazards for local boaters, commercial mariners, and charter vessels along the Grand Strand.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Gale Warning for local coastal and offshore waters, effective overnight through Friday morning, September 25, 2026, at 6:00 AM EDT.
The advisory covers coastal waters from Little River Inlet south to the South Santee River, as well as marine zones stretching from Surf City to Cape Fear, NC. It applies to nearshore waters out to 20 nautical miles as well as offshore waters between 20 and 60 nautical miles.
Forecasters expect north winds ranging from 25 to 35 knots with gusts reaching up to 40 knots. Nearshore seas within 20 nautical miles will build to around 10 feet, while offshore waters between 20 and 60 nautical miles could see seas reaching up to 15 feet.
These conditions create significant hazards for mariners along the Grand Strand and surrounding coastal areas. High winds and elevated seas can easily capsize or damage vessels, alter normal navigation routes, and drastically reduce visibility on the water.
Commercial fishermen, recreational boaters, and charter operators should alter their plans to avoid these dangerous marine conditions. The National Weather Service strongly advises mariners to remain in port, seek safe harbor, or properly secure all vessels until conditions improve after 6:00 AM on Friday.
Quick facts
- Event: NWS Gale Warning
- Timing: Valid until 6:00 AM EDT on Friday, Sep 25, 2026
- Area: Little River Inlet to South Santee River (out to 60 NM)
- Winds: North 25-35 kt, gusts to 40 kt
- Seas: 10 ft nearshore, up to 15 ft offshore
Community notice · prepared from NWS Coastal Waters Advisories (AMZ250) material · original source
