PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard set Port Condition Whiskey at 2 p.m. Thursday for all navigable waters in the Hampton Roads Captain of the Port Zone in preparation for the anticipated weather impact of Hurricane Joaquin.
Gale force winds are expected to reach the Virginia Capes within 72 hours. The Port of Hampton Roads remains open to all vessel traffic and commercial activities, however, all mariners are advised to take prudent actions in preparation of the approaching storm.
Due to uncertainty of weather movements and related bridge closures, mariners are urged to seek passage through drawbridges in advance of the arrival of gale-force winds.
Boaters are also encouraged to remove any electronic position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs), life jackets and life rings from their boat when the boat is moored and unoccupied. EPIRBs and loose gear often trigger false alerts with the Coast Guard and ties up resources that could be used for real search and rescue cases.
For a complete listing of all recommended storm preparations, facilities and vessel operators are strongly encouraged to review the Port of Hampton Roads Maritime Hurricane Contingency Plan, Annex A, Tab C. This plan may be found on line under Local Contingency Plans at http://homeport.uscg.mil/mycg/portal/ep/portDirectory.do?tabId=1&cotpId=26