Boater alert issued for gulf waters

HARLINGEN — High pressure over the gulf and lower pressure inland continue to dominate the coastal weather pattern and again have prompted a small craft advisory today.

National Weather Service forecasters in Brownsville say heavy seas in the gulf will continue to make conditions dicey for captains in gulf waters.

The advisory for boaters ranges from the Rio Grande north to Baffin Bay, and is in effect until 6 p.m. tonight.

Strong winds from the southeast will continue at 15 to 20 knots, with wave heights near shore from five to seven feet and six to eight feet farther out in the gulf.

There is a moderate risk of rip currents on gulf beaches today, and an elevated risk will remain in place through Saturday.

Elsewhere in the Rio Grande Valley and the ranchlands, there will be a marginal to slight risk of severe weather Wednesday. Potential strong, gusty winds, lightning and small hail will be the primary threats.