... Thunderstorm safety while boating...
The following is a safe boating message from the National safe
boating Council and the National Weather Service.
Thunderstorms can be a boaters worst nightmare. They can develop
quickly and create dangerous wind and wave conditions. Thunderstorms
can bring shifting and gusty winds... lightning... and torrential
downpours which can turn a day of 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 caution when thunderstorm conditions exist
and have a plan of escape. It is strongly recommended you do not
venture out if thunderstorms are a possibility. If you do venture
out and recognize thunderstorms nearby... head to a 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.
