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Mariners urged to prepare, exercise caution in high surf
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Posted on Jul 14 2011
The U.S. Coast Guard is warning boaters and beach goers to exercise caution in all waters across Micronesia through Sunday. The National Weather Service has issued several high surf warnings and small craft advisories for west facing reefs along Guam, Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.
Beginning yesterday through Sunday, surf is predicted to build to 10 to 12 feet along west facing reefs on Rota, Tinian, and Saipan. Hazardous seas will also affect Guam with surf predicted to build 8 to 10 feet along west facing reefs.
A small craft advisory for hazardous seas is also in effect for all the islands through Sunday. Seas are anticipated to remain above 10 feet and winds are expected to remain in excess of 20 knots creating waves along affected reefs higher than normal, making it exceptionally dangerous for small vessels and swimmers. The National Weather Service recommends mariners operating small vessels should avoid navigating in these conditions.
Mariners should check current and forecasted weather conditions prior to getting underway, and remain aware of changing conditions once on the water. Coast Guard Sector Guam advises mariners: If in doubt, don’t go out!
Boaters are strongly encouraged to have a VHF marine radio on board to monitor weather conditions, communicate with other mariners and call for help in the event of an emergency. The Coast Guard reminds all mariners that channel 16 is the emergency channel and is monitored around-the-clock.
In addition, marinas and boaters are reminded to check that boats in port are properly secured, bilge pumps are functional, and all loose items are removed from decks. Report any boats adrift, pollution or other maritime emergencies to the Coast Guard Sector Guam Command Center at 671-564-USCG. [B][I](USCG)[/I][/B]
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ON THE NET
http://www.uscgboating.org/
http://www.prh.noaa.gov/guam/
