The Captain of the Port for Hampton Roads set Port Condition X-Ray for the Port of Virginia Wednesday afternoon.
As Hurricane Michael hits the Southeastern United States, parts of Virginia could see life-threatening flash flooding, according to NOAA’s National Hurricane Center. Tropical storm conditions, including high winds, are also predicted on the lower Atlantic Coast.
Under Port Condition X-Ray, tropical storm-force winds are expected within 48 hours. The port remains open, but ocean-going commercial vessels and barges over 500 gross tons should make plans to leave the port. Those who want to stay must submit a safe mooring plan, in writing, to the Captain of the Port.
Recreational boaters should seek safe harbor. Drawbridges may not be operating if sustained winds reach 25 mph. The Coast Guard also urges boaters to heed weather watches and warnings: if conditions are too bad, they won’t be able to carry out search and rescue missions to reach a boater in trouble.
Thursday the Captain of the Port for North Carolina set Condition Zulu for the Ports of Wilmington and Morehead City. That means tropical storm-force winds are expected within 12 hours. These ports are closed to any incoming ships over 500 gross tons, and those already in the port must make plans to leave, or get special permission to stay.
To check the latest port conditions at any regional port, click here.
-Meg Walburn Viviano
