Boating during thunderstorms can be quite challenging, so it’s essential to prioritize safety when you’re out on the water.
Thunderstorms can develop rapidly and bring dangerous conditions like shifting winds, lightning, waterspouts, and torrential downpours.
Lightning strikes are a significant concern. Did you know that it’s more likely for lightning to hit a boat on the water than a spot on land? A strike can lead to electrocution, fire, and loss of electronics.
Lightning strikes nearly one out of 1,000 boats every year. Most of these strikes occur between noon and 6 p.m. So, if you’re out during those hours and a thunderstorm rolls in, take immediate action to protect yourself and your boat.
Heavy rains reduce visibility, and strong winds create intense waves, making water one of the worst places to be during a thunderstorm.
Here are some ways to prepare for severe weather boating:
Secure your boat - If possible, trailer your boat out of the wind or line of the storm and anchor it to the ground with a heavy line or chain. If you can't trailer your boat, make sure it's anchored securely, and all lines are in good condition. You can also weigh down smaller boats with tie-downs or store them in a garage to prevent them from becoming airborne.
Prepare a safety kit - Keep a kit on board that includes life jackets for everyone, a first aid kit, a radio, a fire extinguisher, visual and sound signaling devices, oars or paddles, and an anchor with a line attached.
Make a plan - Create a safety plan and make sure everyone on board knows the steps. You can even print a copy to keep in your glove compartment.
Be weather aware - Check local weather conditions before leaving the dock and keep an eye on the skies, winds, and temperature. Marine weather apps provide a deeper image into forecasts, often showing radar imagery, barometric pressure, wave cap size, and more. Each of these can be used to further determine the likelihood of thunderstorms or other types of severe weather taking place. If you’re looking for a radio option to track weather, tune into the NOAA National Weather Service’s Marine WX Radio. If you notice sudden weather changes, head back to shore immediately.
Typical thunderstorm warning signs include:
Large, puffy clouds that darken
Winds that change direction quickly
Sudden cooling in air temperature
Lower atmospheric pressure
Take other precautions - When on the water, always wear a life jacket that's the right size for you. If you're caught in a lightning storm, unplug any unnecessary electronics to prevent damage. You should also avoid touching metal and electrical devices.
Drive slowly - If you have to continue to drive in a storm, slow down, but keep enough power to maintain headway and steering. Hit waves at a 45-degree angle. Have passengers sit on the floor, if necessary, in the center of your vessel. Stay inside your cabin if you have a cruiser-style boat.
Prepare your vessel - Close all hatches, windows, and doors to reduce the chance of swamping. Stow any unnecessary gear. Turn on your boat’s navigation lights.
Keep bilges free of water - During heavy sea spray and torrential rain, make sure your bilge pumps and Dry Bilge System keeps your bilge free of water accumulation. Excess bilge water can corrode electronic systems, create mold, and negatively impact mechanical operations. BILGE-B-DRY is one solution alongside traditional bilge pumps that can help maintain a clean, dry bilge during storms.
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