Coast Guard Weathers Hurricane Irene

August 29, 2011

 

Petty Officer Third Class Quenten Lehrschall from Coast Guard Station Chatham speaks with a Chatham harbor master regarding a 25-foot sailboat that broke lose from its mooring. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Petty Officer Jeff Hall.

Though commercial traffic has resumed and conditions are deemed safe for large vessels in most major ports, the waters of the harbor are still rough and wind gusts are common. Swimmers, kayakers, fishermen and pleasure boaters are strongly advised to wait for further improvement in conditions before using the harbor for recreation.

The remnants of Hurricane Irene continue to pose a danger and waterborne leisure activities should be delayed for the next few days.

“Regardless of how things may look, we’re not out of the woods yet,” said 1st Coast Guard District Public Affairs Officer, Lt. Joe Klinker. “Our district, which covers the entire northeastern coastline, protects more than 10,000 fishing vessels, ports vital to the U.S. economy, and Americans in a region known for its maritime heritage. We’re out, ready to respond, but don’t want folks to put their guard down just yet.”

Wave heights and currents remain a danger. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by hurricanes. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.

Coast Guard Videos:

Hurricane Irene in Fairhaven Harbor, MA

httpv://youtu.be/9y26YVtAsbA

Coast Guard units brace for Hurricane Irene

httpv://youtu.be/V9x1uapFN3w

Hurricane Irene Outer Banks overflight

httpv://youtu.be/pp6GWQuebxU

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