Weather/Water Conditions - Regal 53 SC Owner's Manual

WEATHER/WATER CONDITIONS

Before a boating outing check the weather conditions.
As we all know the weather can change rapidly in many
parts of the country. It does so sometimes without being
predicted. NOAA weather radio reports are continuously
available on designated frequencies installed on VHF radios
and various handhelds. Also, many local radio stations carry
weather reports along with on-line information.
CLOUD FORMATIONS
Clouds indicate the type of current weather and upcoming
changes in the weather. Knowing the type of cloud
formation can assist you in understanding current weather.
Flat clouds (stratus) normally indicate stable air. Cumulus
clouds indicate unstable air. Many times a "cottonball"
or cumulus cloud builds vertical height in the afternoon
and the result is a thunderstorm with increased winds and
waves; sometimes these storms are quite violent. Also, water
spouts with high vortex winds can develop over water. You
can fi nd additional weather information (meteorology) at
your local library or on the internet.
HIGH CLOUDS
cumulonimbus
(thunderstorm)
cirrostratus cirrocumulus
MIDDLE CLOUDS
altostratus
LOW CLOUDS
nibostratus
cirrus
20,000 Ft.
altocumulus
6,500 Ft.
stratocumulus
cumulus
stratus
catspaw
Safety On Board
WAVES & FOG
As the wind blows across water waves
are created. The stronger the wind and
increased distance across the water
enlarges the wave action.
Other factors that can cause problem
situations for vessels are fog, currents,
and tidal changes.
Fog can develop inland on clear, calm
mornings. Coastal areas see large
"blankets" of fog roll in and stay for extended time periods
sometimes causing hazardous navigation conditions. If
you are caught in the fog, do not panic. Think of the best
plan of action and proceed carefully. If you are limited in
navigation equipment at the fi rst sign of fog proceed to
the nearest shoreline and wait until the fog lifts.
Boats equipped with navigation equipment, local waterway
experience and charts should proceed to a safe harbor.
Use extreme caution, signal as needed, and reduce to a
speed where you can stop within half of your forward
vision range.
If foul weather catches you at sea do the following:
1. Slow down. Proceed with caution and put on your life
vests.
2. Try to reach the nearest safe shoreline.
3. Navigate your vessel slowly into the waves at a 45
degree angle.
4. Passengers should sit low in the center of the vessel.
5. Monitor your bilge pump. Make sure sump stays free
of water.
6. Secure loose gear. Make ready emergency equipment.
7. If the engine stops, throw the anchor over the bow. If
needed use a sea anchor. Never anchor off the stern.
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