8 JUNE 2019 • FOGHORN FOGHORNFOCUS: OPERATIONS 10,000 of them are characterized as severe. The National Weather Service defines a severe thunderstorm as one that can produce hail of an inch or more in diameter and wind gusts of up to 58 miles per hour. Some storms produce larger hail and much higher winds. Thunderstorms also produce lightning and can spawn tornados. Weather Watches and Warnings To help the public prepare for severe weather, the National Weather Service has implemented a system of watches and warnings. These watches or warnings are not just for thunder- storms or tornados, but any type of weather that can adversely affect the watch or warning area. The watch or warning could include a rain event that may lead to localized flooding. A weather watch indicates that con- ditions are favorable for the weather indicated. A watch area is regional. It can include parts of several states. Typically, a watch area for Kingston NY, for example, would include eastern NY, western Massachusetts and areas of Connecticut. The watch does not mean that it’s going to happen and because the watch area is so large, it does not necessarily mean that your particular location will be impacted. A weather warning, however, is much more specific and in the case of a thunderstorm would include the storm track, the characteristics of the storm, and the timing of the event. The event is imminent and should not be discount- ed or ignored. Today, with weather radar, satellite imaging, and networks of weather stations, predicting the weather has become much more accurate.Although it isn’t always spot-on, it is generally impressive. As vessel operators, we are equipped with VHS radios with weather channels, weather alert monitors, and furthermore, you can carry the weather report in your pocket via Smartphones. Some apps, such as Weatherbug, even give you a radar image with current readings. PVA vessel member operators have an excellent safety record. This shows that our companies have a proactive attitude toward safety. Obviously, the attitude includes weather manage- ment. Although you can’t change the weather, a prudent attitude for dealing with it will prevent accidents. We can’t forget that accidents are usually the end result of a chain of events, many times including flawed decision making. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) addressed “heavy weather” in its 2017 Lessons Learned report: “Mariners should always exercise caution when heavy weather is forecast. Although adverse conditions are a par- ticular concern for small vessels, large vessels are not immune to the effects of Mother Nature. Increasing winds and sea states can precede the actual storm Prestigious Commercial K boat, located in Miami, seeks an experienced, highly disciplined USCG licensed captain for ship operation, crew supervision, supervision of vessel maintenance, and maintenance of required USCG logs and records. Captain must have a problem-free marine and personal background. We prefer applicants with experience with USCG Subchapter “K” vessels. PVA experience is an asset. Vessel is unique 224’ x 48’ shallow draft purpose built first-of-a-kind Event Ship with spuds. 2800 IT (89 US T), 600 passengers.  Primary operation is in Biscayne Bay with occasional trips to other ports. 2-3 operational trips per week which are typically 4-5 hours. Company’s clients are principally Fortune 500 companies and affluent individuals. Vessel and crew must reflect first class appeared at all times. There are a constant flow of potential clients visiting the ship which must be maintained in presentation mode at all times. We strive for a “spit and polish” disciplined operation. This is a 5 day per week full time position. May be live aboard or shore side. Supervises Mate/Engineer and 5-8 marine crew. Large hospitality staff is supervised by Hospitality Department. REQUIREMENTS & PREFERENCES: • Must have 5+ years’ experience of large boat operation preferably over 200’. Small passenger ship, casino ship, and similar vessels are excellent background.  • Minimum USCG 500T license or 1600T Master’s license required. • Requires 5 years minimum command experience. • USCG, marine academy and/or military experience is an asset. • Command of USCG “K” or “H” vessel is especially desirable. • Required excellent organizational skills, crew management skills, vessel maintenance skills as well as vessel operational and ship handling skills. Excellent growth opportunity. Future ships are under consideration. This is a desirable position for an individual who prefers to live in the Miami/South Florida area and maintain a normal non-traveling marine lifestyle. Highly competitive compensation. Please submit resume and credentials to hr@seafairmiami.com Today, with weather radar, satellite imaging, and networks of weather stations, predicting the weather has become much more accurate. Although it isn’t always spot-on, it is generally impressive.