Coast Guard Takes Necessary Precautions For Isabel

In setting Hurricane Condition X-Ray, Coast Guard Activities New York has established a Crisis Action Center (CAC). All reports and questions should be directed to the CAC starting on Thursday, September 18 at the following numbers: (718) 354-4356 or (718) 354-4152.1. The U.S. Coast Guard COTP has set hurricane condition X-Ray for the Port of New York and New Jersey. Gale force winds from Hurricane Isabel are expected to make landfall along the coast of New York/New Jersey within approximately 24 hours.2. All vessels and facilities should review the Activities New York Hurricane and Severe Weather Plan (now available in the “USCG Notices” section at: http://www.harborops.com)3. Drawbridges may not be operating when sustained winds reach 35 kts or when evacuation is in progress. 4. The COTP has established a safety zone for the following areas: PORT OF NY/NJ. To enter, transit or remain within the safety zone, vessels must comply with the following requirements: a. All ocean going commercial vessels and ocean going barges greater than 500 gross tons desiring to remain in port must arrange safe mooring and shall complete and submit immediately to the COTP a Remaining in Port Checklist for approval. Ocean going Commercial vessels and ocean going barges of 500 gross tons departing the port must plan to depart no later than 12 hours prior to the arrival of gale force winds.5. Mariners are advised that the COTP will impose vessel traffic control measures significantly limiting vessel movement and activities when gale force winds are within 12 hours of the port. Vessels bound for the port of New York and New Jersey which are unable to depart 12 hours prior to the arrival of gale force winds are advised to seek an alternate destination.6. Vessels and facilities continuing operations should notify Coast Guard Activities New York at one of the above numbers.7. Additionally, over the next 24-36 hours GALE FORCE winds are forecasted. Refer to the “Standard Severe Weather Practices” of the Captain of the Port Hurricane and Severe Weather Plan (pages 9 & 10) for more guidance.