PORTSMOUTH, Va. – The Coast Guard has issued an amended Zulu Port Condition for the Port of Virginia that goes into effect Sunday afternoon.
The Harbor Master amended the condition of Port Zulu for Virginia coastal waters from Cape Charles Light south to the Virginia/North Carolina border due to the winter storm that was battering the area. . This comes into effect at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 16.
With the exception of vessels designated by the harbor master, the Coast Guard advises that no vessel may enter, transit, move or anchor in the closed area. The Port of Virginia in the coastal waters of the Chesapeake Bay and northern Virginia will remain open to all shipping traffic and commercial activities.
Officials want to warn the maritime community to take necessary precautions as the storm approaches.
The Coast Guard encourages the public to stay out of the water. Coast Guard search and rescue capabilities are deteriorating as storm conditions strengthen. This means that help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings and advisories to small craft.
They also say to secure small watercraft, lifebuoys, life jackets and personal effects.
Finally, the Coast Guard warns the public to stay informed as conditions change.
For urgent life safety concerns, please contact the Virginia Sector Command Center on VHF-FM channel 16 or call (757) 483-8567.
Click here for our full forecast.
