The US Coast Guard is warning mariners and the public to be extremely careful when sailing the coasts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts from Wednesday 21 March, into Thursday 22 March, as a winter storm is expected in this area.
Operation for any craft in the maritime environment will be dangerous, as there is high marine impact expected with 50 knot wind gusts and 20+ foot seas from Wednesday into Thursday.
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US Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod air crews are flying storm tracks ahead of the storm to warn mariners of the upcoming heavy weather.
US Coast Guard Cutter Spencer, a 270-foot cutter homeported in Boston, will be off the coast to respond to offshore search and rescue emergencies.
Because of the expected extreme conditions, some US Coast Guard assets may have limited ability to respond to vessels in distress. As a result, waterfront operators, mariners, fishing vessels, recreational boaters, and the general public should be careful, as conditions begin to worsen.
Mariners and recreational boaters are warned to take the following measures to protect their vessels and their crews:
- If a storm is approaching, do not go out to sea.
- Double-check lines when securing your boat. Take precautions for items stored loosely aboard.
- Please secure all paddle craft and ensure they are not located in or near the tidal surge zone. Contact local marinas for advice on how best to secure your vessel.
- If you must get underway, create a float plan and send it to your friends and families before getting underway.
- Ensure that you have the proper signaling devices onboard your vessel and the correct amount of life jackets onboard.
- Personal watercraft and paddle craft users are advised to stay off the water due extremely hazardous sea conditions. Also, swimmers, surfers, and wind surfers are strongly urged to stay out of the water during this period of heavy weather.
- Always wear a proper life jacket when on a boat or personal watercraft.
