Tropical Storm Arthur Preparations
Although the exact track of this storm remains uncertain, the possibility that this storm will affect our area of the Chesapeake Bay is increasingly likely. All Stingray Point Marina slipholders are advised to begin their storm preparations as soon as possible. Please be aware that slip holders, not Stingray Point Marina, are responsible for securing their boats and personal property on marina premises.
Please monitor this storm to keep yourself informed. We have a link on our website to a variety of sources for weather information, including a link to the Hurricane Center, where you can see path and timing forecasts. Today, Tuesday, the current forecast has the center of the storm near Cape Hatteras, North Carolina on Friday morning at 8:00 am. It will be affecting the lower Chesapeake Bay at that time, and throughout the day. Likely make for a not very fun Fourth of July. We will be monitoring the situation as well. Below are recommendation for preparing your boat for potential tropical storms and hurricanes.
Recommended Procedures for a Potential Tropical Storms
Tropical storms have sustained winds from 39 mph to 73 mph and can cause significant damage to boats that are improperly secured. Be aware that a Tropical Storm can be quickly upgraded to a hurricane. In the event Deltaville is in the “cone of uncertainty” path of a tropical storm, boat owners should take the following precautions well in advance of the storm’s projected arrival:
Boats in slips: Reduce windage by removing headsails (including furled jibs), mainsails, sail covers, biminis, dodgers and other canvas. Remove life rafts and other large objects that can catch wind. Check for chafe and wear on dock line and replace or double lines if necessary. Insert chafing gear in chocks if chocks wear substantially on dock lines. Check batteries for charge and charge if needed. Bilge pumps should be on automatic. Port lights and hatches should be securely closed in watertight conditions. Any flags should be lowered and stowed, and halyards should be pulled away from the mast and snugged securely. Close fuel and all overboard sea cocks.
DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MOMENT TO SECURE YOUR BOAT– YOU MAY NOT BE ABLE TO GET TO YOUR BOAT.
Dinghy Boats on the rack: lash down boats, or remove and take home.
Recommended Procedures for a Potential Hurricane
In the event Deltaville is in the “cone of uncertainty” path of a hurricane, sailboat owners should take the following precautions well in advance of the storm’s potential arrival. Keep in mind that hurricane-force winds start are sustained winds 74 mph. The maximum effects of a hurricane are usually felt within the right-front quadrant. Here the winds are usually the strongest, storm surge is highest, and the possibility of tornadoes is greatest. Begin to implement your plan at the first forecast that the projected path includes Southern Chesapeake Bay, this will give you several days to execute your plan.
In addition, Stingray Point Marina is subject to storm surge in a hurricane event. In Hurricane Isabel and Irene, the storm surge was six to seven feet above mean high tide; waiting to the last minute is very risky. The docks, pilings, and some seawalls were all underwater. Boats left in slips that are not properly secured and present a danger to themselves, to other boats and property, and to persons in the area. Additionally, you might want to remove contents from dock boxes, as they can become flooded during a storm surge, causing water damage to the contents.
Boat Owner Identification: For owners planning to move their boat to upriver locations, Authorities with VMRC and Middlesex County have requested that each boat have the boat owner’s name, vessel name, and contact information placed in a watertight plastic bag and placed somewhere easily accessible, such as unlocked cockpit locker or lazarett. This will allow them to contact the boat owner if needed after a storm.
