Staying aware of weather conditions can help mariners keep their crew, passengers, and vessels safe. The U.S. Coast Guard Office of Operating and Environmental Standards (CG-OES) recently released a new Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB) providing vessel owners, operators, and crews with guidance on available sources for marine weather information.
The MSIB encourages owners, operators and crews to evaluate all available means to monitor marine weather conditions and forecasts to determine the best course of action for their vessels and their intended routes. The MSIB further aims to encourage owners and operators to implement or update guidance for how frequently a vessel master should check weather conditions and forecasts before and during transits. From sharing details on VHF channels to monitor to noting sites that can be frequently checked, the MSIB offers resources for mariners to stay on top of weather conditions.
For more detailed information, the MSIB is available electronically on the Deputy Commandant for Operations website. Questions can be directed to the Coast Guard Office of Operating and Environmental Standards at HQS-SMB-CG-OES@uscg.mil.