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Chapter 2
WEATHER/WATER CONDITIONS
Before a boating outing check the weather conditions.
As we all know the weather can change rapidly in many
parts of the country. It does so sometimes without being
predicted. NOAA weather radio reports are continuously
available on designated frequencies installed on VHF
radios and various hand held devices. Also, many local
radio stations carry weather reports along with on-line
information.
CLOUD FORMATIONS
Clouds indicate the type of current weather and
up
coming changes in the weather. Knowing the type of
cloud formation can assist you in understanding current
weather. Flat clouds (stratus) normally indicate stable
air. Cumulus clouds indicate unstable air. Many times
a “cotton ball” or cumulus cloud builds vertical height
in the a ernoon and the result is a thunderstorm with
increased winds and waves; sometimes these storms are
quite violent. Also, water spouts with high vortex winds
can develop over water. You can nd additional weather
information (meteorology) at your local library or on
the internet.
20,000 Ft.
6,500 Ft.
HIGH CLOUDS
MIDDLE CLOUDS
LOW CLOUDS
catspaw
nibostratus
stratus
cumulus
stratocumulus
cumulonimbus
(thunderstorm)
cirrus
cirrostratus
cirrocumulus
altostratus
altocumulus
As the wind blows across water waves
are created. e stronger the wind
and increased distance across the
water enlarges the wave action.
Other factors that can cause problem
situations for vessels are fog, currents,
and tidal changes.
Fog can develop inland on clear,
calm mornings. Coastal areas see
large “blankets” of fog roll in and stay for extended
time periods sometimes causing hazardous navigation
conditions. If you are caught in the fog, do not panic.
ink of the best plan of action and proceed carefully.
If you are limited in navigation equipment at the rst
sign of fog proceed to the nearest shoreline and wait
until the fog li s.
Boats equipped with navigation equipment, local
waterway experience and charts should proceed to a
safe harbor. Use extreme caution, signal as needed, and
reduce to a speed where you can stop within half of your
forward vision range.
If foul weather catches you at sea do the following:
1. Slow down. Proceed with caution and put on your
life vests.
2. Try to reach the nearest safe shoreline.
3. Navigate your vessel slowly into the waves at a 45
degree angle.
4. Passengers should sit low in the center of the vessel.
5. Monitor your bilge pump. Make sure sump stays free
of water.
6. Secure loose gear. Make ready emergency equipment.
7. If the engine stops, throw the anchor over the bow.
If needed use a sea anchor. Never anchor o the stern.
WAVES & FOG
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