USCG Sets Port Condition ZULU For Puerto Rico And The U.S. Virgin Islands

Effective 8 a.m. Tuesday, the Coast Guard Captain of the Port San Juan, Capt. Eric P. King, is scheduled to set port condition ZULU for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgins Islands due to the possibility of sustained gale force winds greater than 39 mph from Hurricane Maria that may arrive within 24 hours.

Mariners are reminded there are no safe havens in these facilities, and ports are safest when the inventory of vessels is at a minimum.

While port condition ZULU is in place no vessels may enter or transit within these ports without permission of the COTP. All vessel movements are prohibited at this time, and all ship-to-shore operations must cease until further notice.

The Coast Guard is warning the public of these important safety messages:

• Stay off the water. The Coast Guard’s search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen. This means help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings and small craft advisories.
• Evacuate as necessary. If mandatory evacuations are set for an area, the public should evacuate without delay. Coast Guard personnel and other emergency responders may not be able to evacuate or rescue those in danger during the storm
• Secure belongings. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Trailerable boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, lifejackets and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources be diverted to ensure people are not in distress.
• Stay clear of beaches. Wave heights and currents typically increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by hurricanes. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.
• Be prepared. Area residents should be prepared by developing a family plan, creating a disaster supply kit, having a place to go, securing their home and having a plan for pets. Information can be found at the National Hurricane Center’s webpage.
• Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio and Internet. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF radio channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF radio channel 16.

Reference: govdelivery.com

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Latest Shipping News You Would Like:

Indian & U.S Navies Discuss Ways to Expand Maritime Security Cooperation

Posted on September 25, 2023

Admiral R. Hari Kumar, the Indian Navy Chief, was there at the 25th International Seapower Symposium (abbreviated ISS) in the US, per the Defence Ministry.

Philippines Accuses China Of Installing A Floating Barrier In The Disputed South China Sea

Posted on September 25, 2023

The Philippines accused the Chinese Coast Guard of installing a floating barrier within a disputed zone in the South China Sea, stating that it prevented the Filipinos from entering and fishing in that area.

Insurers Of Burnt Ship X-Press Pearl Make Interim Payment To Sri Lanka For Cleanup

Posted on September 25, 2023

The insurers of X-Press Pearl, which sank off Sri Lanka’s western coast after it was gutted in a huge fire two years back, have recently cleared an interim payment to Sri Lanka’s Government.

Firefighters Save Burning Container Ship Off The Cape Coast

Posted on September 25, 2023

One 54000-ton container vessel caught alight while it was out at sea, and was directed into the waters of Cape Town.

Teenage Girl Found Hiding On Ship Sailing To Africa 12 Days After Disappearance

Posted on September 25, 2023

A Scots teen who mentioned she was headed to the pictures was discovered on a 3,000-ton ship to Africa.