DATE:

CONTACT:

 March 2, 2009

 Public Affairs (510) 437-3325 or (510) 772-8865

ALAMEDA, Calif. - The National Weather Service has issued a weather advisory for areas in Northern California through Tuesday morning.

Sustained southeast winds are expected to be between 20 and 35 m.p.h. with gusts reaching up to 50 m.p.h. The National Weather Service has also issued a gale warning for boating traffic inside the San Francisco Bay.

The Coast Guard strongly recommends that people avoid going near beaches or other low-lying coastal areas, especially jetties and rocky areas, over the next several days.  Large waves can quickly, and unexpectedly sweep a person from these areas.  Even the strongest swimmers can quickly be overtaken by the power of the sea, especially when the cold-water temperatures are factored in.

Given the cold temperatures associated with this system, and the cold Pacific waters, hypothermia is a major concern, as always.

Though the large waves can be an extreme sight to some, the Coast Guard, along with its partner state and local agencies, urge people to not go near these areas if at all possible.  The risk to life is too great during conditions such as these.

The Coast Guard also strongly recommends boaters avoid taking to the water over the next few days, until the seas subside.

If it is necessary to get underway mariners are urged to check that all of their safety equipment is in good condition. 

There should be a personal flotation device onboard for each person, sized accordingly.  If boaters will be traveling offshore, it is strongly recommended that there be an immersion suit or other full-body protection, as water temperatures will be cold, and hypothermia can quickly overtake the average person.

All boaters should also ensure that they have a working marine VHF radio on board to contact the Coast Guard on channel 16 should an emergency arise.  The Coast Guard reminds all mariners that channel 16 is an emergency frequency, and should be used for such.  Misuse of channel 16 or broadcasting false distress calls can result in prison time, severe fines, and you could be liable for any costs incurred as a result of search efforts.

The Coast Guard also strongly recommends that all boaters file a float plan with a friend or family member on land, with an approximate time of return and location to which you will be heading.  It is also recommended that you regularly check in with those who are aware of your plan, especially if your plan should change.

Mariners should check current and forecasted weather conditions prior to getting underway, and remain aware of changing conditions once on the water.  The National Weather Service broadcasts weather conditions throughout the day on VHF channel WX2.  The Coast Guard broadcasts weather conditions on VHF channel 22A at 9:30 a.m., noon, and 4:30 p.m.

During this period of heavy weather, the Coast Guard also encourages all boaters to check the status of mooring and anchor lines, and replace worn lines if necessary.  During strong winds and heavy seas, vessels can come loose from the pier or anchor due to worn lines, or not having enough lines attached to the pier or having a heavy enough anchor.

Vessels adrift can become hazardous to nearby vessels as they are tossed about, and can become hazards to navigation once the storm has passed.  These vessels can also pose environmental risk as any fluids or chemicals onboard can spill or leak should the vessel break apart.

For more information on boating safety and required and recommended safety equipment, please visit www.uscgboating.org.

For more information on weather conditions, please visit www.weather.gov.