News Release

PORTSMOUTH, Va. - Coast Guard sectors along the mid-atlantic region are notifying mariners Wednesday of gale conditions and advising that mariners not experienced in those conditions to stay in port.

The National Weather Service issued multiple gale warnings from North Carolina to New Jersey for winds in excess of 34 knots extending 20 miles offshore.

Sector Hampton Roads and Sector North Carolina are making the following broadcasts on VHF channel 16:

"Mariners inexperienced in gale conditions are advised to stay in port" - recording of Sector Hampton Roads broadcast
WAV audio file: 280kb

"Seek safe harbor if possible and make sure you and your passengers are wearing life jackets" - recording of Sector North Carolina broadcast
WAV audio file: 530kb

The Coast Guard urges mariners to always:

• Stay Informed - The public should be aware of weather conditions and monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio and internet. Boaters can monitor progress on VHF channel 16.
• Check the current and expected weather and water conditions before heading out, and be aware that weather conditions can quickly change.
• Wear their lifejackets while on the water.
• File a float plan with friends, family members and their local marina before heading out. The list should include the number of passengers onboard the vessel, their destination and expected time of return.
• Have a working radio onboard their vessel as cell phone coverage varies from region to region.
• Carry marine flares onboard their vessel to signal rescuers in distress and emergency situations.
• Keep a Global Positioning System or Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) so that they may be easier to locate in the event of distress.
• Secure belongings - Owners of recreational boats are urged to take appropriate precautions to prevent damage to their and others' vessels.

The warnings and advisories are available on the National Weather Service's website. Click the maps below to see the most up-to-date versions on the NWS website.

Last map update: Wed, Dec. 9, 2009 at 2:12:02 pm EST