Public Information Statement
Issued by NWS Portland, ME

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NOUS41 KGYX 222115
PNSGYX
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT...NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE GRAY ME

515 PM EDT WED MAY 22 2013



...THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE AND NERACOOS CONTINUES TO OBSERVE MAY 18th

THROUGH MAY 24TH AS NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK...



...Thunderstorm Safety...



The following is a safe boating message from the National Safe Boating Council

and the National Weather Service, reminding you that National Safe Boating Week

is May 18TH through May 24th.



Thunderstorms can be a mariners worst nightmare. They can develop quickly and

create dangerous wind and wave conditions. Thunderstorms can bring shifting and

gusty winds, lightning, waterspouts, and torrential downpours which can turn a

days pleasure into a nightmare of distress.



There are no specific warnings or advisories for lightning but all thunderstorms

produce lightning. A lightning strike to a vessel can be catastrophic, especially

if it results in a fire or loss of electronics. If your boat has a cabin, then

stay inside and avoid touching metal or electrical devices. If your boat doesnt

have a cabin, stay as low as you can in the boat.



Boaters should use extra caution when thunderstorm conditions exist and have a

plan of escape. Mariners are especially vulnerable as at times they may unable to

reach port quickly. It is therefore strongly recommended you do not venture out

if thunderstorms are a possibility. If you do venture out and recognize

thunderstorms nearby, head to port or safe shelter as quickly as possible.

Ultimately, boating safety begins ashore with planning and training. Keep in mind

that thunderstorms are usually brief so waiting it out is better than riding it

out.



Remember to check out the forecast before venturing out on the water.  A new

lakes forecast for Sebago and Winnipesaukee can be found at

www.erh.noaa.gov/gyx/lakeforecasts/



This message was brought to you by the National Weather Service...NERACOOS and

the National Safe Boating Council. Visit the National Weather Service on the web at

www.weather.gov...NERACOOS at WWW.NERACOOS.org and the National Safe Boating Council at

www.safeboatingcouncil.org



$$