Coast Guard Sets Port Condition X-Ray in NC Waters
The Captain of the Port (COTP) North Carolina has set Port Condition X-Ray for all navigable waterways in the North Carolina COTP Zone in preparation for the anticipated weather impact of Tropical Storm Hermine, the U.S. Coast Guard announced.
Gale Force winds of 34 knots or greater are predicted along the coast of North Carolina.
Under Port Condition X-Ray, pleasure craft are advised to seek safe harbor, and commercial vessels that intend to enter, transit or remain within any North Carolina port must comply with several requirements outlined below:
- All self-propelled oceangoing vessels over 500 gross-tons, all oceangoing barges and their supporting tugs and all tank barges over 200 gross-tons intending to depart the port must schedule departure to clear the sea buoy at least 12 hours prior to the expected arrival of sustained gale force winds associated with tropical storm activity at Frying Pan Shoals NOAA Lighted Buoy. Those wishing to remain in port must immediately submit in writing to the COTP an application for approval to remain in port.
- All self-propelled oceangoing vessels over 500 gross-tons, all oceangoing barges and their supporting tugs, and all tank barges over 200 gross-tons are expected to be finalizing preparations for departure during the next 24 hours unless they intend to stay in port and have notified the COTP of such intention and have submitted a Remaining in Port Checklist for approval by the COTP.
- Vessels bound for North Carolina ports that are unable to depart 24 hours prior to the arrival of sustained gale force winds at Frying Pan Shoals NOAA Lighted Buoy are advised to seek an alternative destination.
Drawbridges will remain closed when wind speeds are 34 knots or greater or once evacuations begin.