MARAD Advisory Re Japanese Power Plant

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) issued an Advisory stating that, due to radiation leaks from the damaged nuclear power plant near Fukushima, Japan, vessels are urged to avoid transiting within 50 miles of that site (37-19 North, 141-01 East).  This cautionary area may expand depending upon prevailing wind and weather.  In the event that a vessel bound for the United States has transited within the cautionary area, the master should submit transit information, including the date and total time within the cautionary area, to the cognizant USCG Captain of the Port (COTP) using the comment block on the 96-hour advance notice of arrival (ANOA).  (3/17/11).