... Thunderstorm safety...
The following is a safe boating message from the National safe
boating Council and the National Weather Service for this years
National safe boating week may 17th through the 24th.
Thunderstorms can be a mariners worst nightmare. They can develop
quickly and create dangerous wind and wave conditions.
Thunderstorms can bring shifting and gusty winds... lightning...
waterspouts... and torrential downpours which can turn a days
pleasure into a nightmare of distress.
There are no specific warnings or advisories for lightning but
all thunderstorms produce lightning. A lightning strike to a
vessel can be catastrophic... especially if it results in a fire
or loss of electronics. If your boat has a cabin... then stay
inside and avoid touching metal or electrical devices. If your
boat does not have a cabin... stay as low as you can in the boat.
Boaters should use extra when thunderstorm conditions exist
and have a plan of escape. Mariners are especially vulnerable
as at times they may be unable to reach port quickly. It is
strongly recommended that you do not venture out if thunderstorms
are a possibility. If you do venture out and recognize thunderstorms
nearby... head to port or safe shelter as quickly as possible.
Ultimately... boating safety begins ashore with planning and
training. Keep in mind that thunderstorms are usually brief so
waiting it out is better than riding it out.
This message was brought to you by the National Weather Service
and the National safe boating Council. Visit the National
Weather Service on the web at www.Weather.Gov and the National
safe boating Council at www.Safeboatingcouncil.Org.
