The US Coast Guard reopened all Port of Tampa zones on December 30, letting ship traffic to move in and out of the port. The port reopened when the visibility increased to 2 nautical miles.
Mainly, the USCG closed the Port of Tampa Bay because of dense fog that decreased the visibility to less than 1 mile on December 29, Saturday.
Some cruise ships and vessels were not able to enter or leave the Port of Tampa Bay.
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Moreover, Bill Walsh, deputy commander Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, addressed that the passengers’ safety is a priority for the Coast Guard. That’s why, the USCG is collaborating with the Cooperative Vessel Traffic System, the Tampa Bay Pilots Association and other industry partners to monitor the weather, and to determine how and when they are able facilitate commercial traffic.
Finally, USCG addresses to all seafarers to be fully aware of the weather before getting underway, especially during foggy weather and unpredictable weather conditions.
