In response to the situation at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant in Japan, the U.S. Coast Guard recommends, as a precaution, that vessels avoid transiting within 50 miles (43 nautical miles/80 kilometers) of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant (37°N, 141°01'E). Mariners are advised that this recommendation should be considered a minimum distance. Prudent route planning should incorporate prevailing and changing wind and weather conditions, in addition to the other precautionary measures.
In the event a vessel bound for a U.S. port transits within the 50 mile (43 nautical miles/80 kilometers) cautionary area, the U.S. Coast Guard recommends the vessel's master submit transit information, including the date and total time within the cautionary area, to the cognizant U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port using the comment block in the routine submittal of their 96-hour Advanced Notice of Arrival.
The U.S. Coast Guard will provide an updated notice as additional guidance becomes available. Mariners should keep abreast of information being provided by the government of Japan relating to any further potential impacts.