Warning- Gales and storms for NSW Coastal Waters

by Penny Robbins on 22 Sep 2008 NSW Maritime has issued an alert to boat owners to check moorings and stay off the water ahead of damaging gale-force winds forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology.

Skippers are urged to act responsibly and not take risks. Severe damaging storms are forecast later today and overnight with gale-force winds.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a weather warning for much of the NSW coast for today and tomorrow.

Strong to gale-force winds are expected to impact on much of the coastline overnight with winds forecast to reach 40 knots in some areas.

Seas are also forecast to rise – up to 4m off Sydney and the Hunter.

NSW Maritime advises boaters should stay off the water wherever possible and avoid going offshore unless absolutely necessary.

NSW Maritime advises extreme care, and caution must be taken and boat owners should check their moorings are secure.

NSW Maritime reminds skippers of their responsibilities have a lifejacket to hand for each passenger, put them on if weather conditions get worse whilst on the water, and only drive your boat at a safe speed for the conditions.

If you’re on the water, make sure someone knows where you’re going and when you will be back.