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Coast Guard urges caution during winter storm
SAN DIEGO – The U.S. Coast Guard is urging mariners and beach-goers to exercise caution during the next three days, as the National Weather Service has issued a high surf and small craft advisory for Southern California.
The advisories remain in effect until Friday afternoon, as a large storm is expected to impact the San Diego coastline. The storms are expected to produce long-period west swells up to 15 feet.
The Coast Guard strongly recommends that people avoid going near beaches or other low-lying coastal areas, especially jetties and rocky areas. Large waves can quickly and unexpectedly sweep a person from these areas. Even the strongest swimmers can quickly be overtaken by the power of the sea, especially when the cold water temperatures are factored in.
Given the cold air and water temperatures associated with this system hypothermia is a major concern.
Though the large waves can be an extreme sight to some, the Coast Guard, along with its partner state and local agencies, urge people to not go near these areas if at all possible. The risk to life is too great during conditions such as these.
The Coast Guard also strongly recommends boaters avoid taking to the water over the next few days, until the seas subside.
If it is necessary to get underway, mariners are urged to check that all of their safety equipment is in good condition.
There should be a personal flotation device onboard for each person, sized accordingly. If boaters will be traveling offshore, it is strongly recommended that there be an immersion suit or other full-body protection, as water temperatures will be cold, and hypothermia can quickly overtake the average person.
Mariners should check current and forecasted weather conditions prior to getting underway, and remain aware of changing conditions once on the water. The National Weather Service broadcasts weather conditions throughout the day on VHF channel WX2. The Coast Guard broadcasts weather conditions on VHF channel 22A at 9:30 a.m., noon, and 4:30 p.m.
For more information on boating safety and required and recommended safety equipment, please visit www.uscgboating.org.
For more information on weather conditions, please visit www.weather.gov.
For the National Weather Service advisories, click the following links:
High Surf Advisory
Small Craft Advisory
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