The U.S. Coast Guard is strongly recommending that Bay Area boaters avoid taking to the water early next week because of a storm that is expected to bring heavy rainfall and high winds to the region.
The National Weather Service is forecasting a “potent storm system” will reach the Bay Area as early as Monday afternoon and is expected to stay in the region until Wednesday morning.
The heaviest rainfall and strongest wind is expected to come to the region on Tuesday, with forecasts of wind gusts of up to 60 mph and rain amounts ranging from 1 to 4 inches.
The Coast Guard is recommending that boaters avoid taking to the water between Monday and Wednesday until the winds and dangerous sea conditions subside.
If people do go out on boats, there should be a personal flotation device for each person onboard, and the Coast Guard is strongly recommending that boaters going offshore bring immersion suits or other full-body protection because of cold water temperatures.
All boaters should also make sure they have a working marine VHF radio on board to contact the Coast Guard on channel 16 in the event of an emergency, and to check in with friends or family to ensure they are aware of your location and approximate time of return.
For more information on boating safety and recommended safety equipment, visit uscgboating.org.
