Special Marine Warning For New Jersey, US Along With Heavy Winds: Here’s What You Need To Know

Published on November 27, 2025

The Special Marine Warning (SMW) was released by the National Weather Service (NWS) located in Mount Holly, New Jersey on the 26th of November, exactly at 7:13 PM EST. This warning was directed to all boaters and villagers in the coastal waters between Sandy Hook and Little Egg Inlet, New Jersey, to get ready for the dangerous conditions that were likely to occur. The warning was valid till 8:45 PM EST that night and it recommended that tourists and small craft operators should start taking precautions right away.

Heavy Showers and Dangerous Winds

At 7:12 PM EST, radar detected a line of intense heavy showers moving swiftly eastward at a speed of 35 knots, located just off the New Jersey coast. These conditions were particularly concerning for coastal and outer waters stretching from Sandy Hook to Little Egg Inlet. The storm system posed significant risks with wind gusts of 34 knots or greater, potentially putting small vessels in peril.

According to the NWS, such high winds and rough conditions could lead to sudden, severe waves that might damage small craft or lead to dangerous situations for unprepared individuals. The NWS provided vital instructions, advising boaters to seek shelter in safe harbour until the weather improved.

Key Affected Areas and Popular Tourist Destinations

Several well-known coastal towns and attractions lie directly in the path of the warning. Among the areas impacted are:

• Ocean Gate
• Sea Girt Reef
• Barnegat Light Reef
• Axel Carlson Reef
• Silverton
• Harvey Cedars
• Forked River
• Lavallette
• Barnegat Light
• Shark River Reef
• Point Pleasant Beach
• Belmar
• Seaside Park
• Manasquan Inlet
• Pine Beach

These locations, renowned for their vibrant beach life and water-based activities, are popular tourist destinations in New Jersey. With stormy conditions expected to affect these areas, tourists should exercise caution and stay updated on weather alerts.

Safety Protocols for Tourists and Visitors

Tourists, especially those out on the water or near the coastline, should follow key safety protocols to ensure their safety during these hazardous weather conditions:

1. Seek Shelter: As advised by the NWS, small craft should move to safe harbour immediately to avoid being caught in high winds or rough waves.
2. Stay Informed: Tourists should monitor weather updates via official sources like the NWS or local weather stations.
3. Avoid Water Activities: Recreational boating, fishing, and swimming should be avoided in these storm conditions. Visitors should refrain from venturing out to sea.
4. Stay Indoors: If on land, it is best to stay indoors during the storm, especially near coastal areas where conditions can change rapidly.
5. Emergency Kit: Ensure access to emergency supplies, including a fully charged phone, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications.
6. Follow Local Guidelines: Check with local authorities, especially if staying in resorts or rented properties, to understand evacuation procedures or the availability of shelter.

Tourism and Local Economy at Risk

The ongoing stormy weather could disrupt the daily operations of various tourist-focused businesses in the affected areas. Coastal restaurants, beach clubs, and boat rentals may be temporarily closed or face limited hours of operation. This disruption may also affect tourists’ itineraries, so it’s important to check in with local businesses for updates on weather-affected services.

While storms like this are not uncommon in the area, the rapid changes in weather can still pose a significant challenge for both locals and visitors. The NWS urges all to prioritise safety over plans that might put individuals in harm’s way.

Be Prepared for Sudden Changes in Weather

Despite the warning being in effect only until 8:45 PM, the potential for sudden shifts in weather means that visitors should remain cautious, especially on the water. The NWS continues to track the storm system closely and will issue further updates if the situation worsens.

With New Jersey’s coastal waters drawing large numbers of tourists year-round, especially during the warmer months, it is vital for visitors to stay informed and prepared, even in the off-season, as storms like this one can strike unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

The special marine warning that covers the coast of New Jersey has emphasized that extreme weather could potentially be a great danger not only to the local people but also to the tourists. Regardless of whether you are having a nice, peaceful moment on the beach or surfing on the reefs, it is very important that safety is the number one priority at all times. Follow the NWS alerts constantly and also take preventive actions to make sure that you and the people around you are safe. Keep track of the weather, everyone, and if necessary, go to the designated shelters; also do not forget that these interruptions are just temporary and they are for your own safety.