Inclement Winter Weather Advisory
Sector Hampton Roads Port Entrance Closure and Restrictions
Due to the forecasts of severe winds and reduced visibility at the entrance to Chesapeake Bay, the Captain of the Port (COTP) Hampton Roads will be imposing the following restrictions:
effective at 6 p.m. tonight, January 3, 2018, no vessels may enter or depart from the Chesapeake Bay, and no vessels over 2,500 gross tons may move within the port without obtaining
permission from the COTP or his designated representative. These restrictions are anticipated to last until approximately 9 a.m. on Friday, January 5, 2018, but are subject to adjustment based on
conditions.
Vessels under 2,500 gross tons will be permitted to move within the port, but should do so with extreme caution. If a vessel or vessel representative believes there are circumstances that require
a vessel to arrive or depart during the time of this restriction, they may request an exception from the COTP. To reach the COTP to obtain permission to transit during the restrictions, contact the
Sector Hampton Roads Command Center at (757) 668-6637.
PRECAUTIONS: It is primarily the facility operator’s decision to allow vessels to remain moored during the storm. Facilities that do not allow vessels to remain moored must provide
them with sufficient notice to allow vessels time to move to a safe mooring, heavy weather anchorage, or depart to sea.
All facility and vessel operators should continue to make heavy weather preparations to include ensuring all loose cargo, cargo equipment, and debris are secured safely. All vessel mooring
should be reinforced.
Vessels anchored shall prepare for severe winds. Additional anchor(s) should be made ready to let go and preparations shall be made to have a continuous anchor watch. Engine(s) should be
made immediately available for maneuvering. Also, vessels should maintain a continuous listening watch on VHF Channel 16.