Boating Safety Tips During a Thunderstorm
Pop up thunderstorms are very common here at the Lake of the Ozarks. Have you ever been caught up in a thunderstorm when you boating? Thunderstorms can be very unpredictable and dangerous when you're out on the water. Because thunderstorms are so common in the summer, it's best to be prepared. Today, our boat dealership at the Lake of the Ozarks would like to share with you some boater safety tips when a thunderstorm pops up while you're boating.
Be Prepared Before You Leave the Dock – knowing how to dock a boat or perform a close-quarters maneuver near the shore can be extremely difficult, especially if the wind is blowing. If necessary, take a boating safety course. You should also have a firm grasp on how to read the weather.
Boating is Fun, BUT Don't Risk it if There is a High Chance for a Thunderstorm
Thunderstorms are one of the more common dangers to boaters because they can develop so quickly. If you are out on the water and you notice storms that are approaching, you should return to land or shelter as soon as possible. If you are unable to return to land, you should stay inside the cabin and avoid any metal or electrical devices. If your boat does not have a cabin, try to stay as low as possible.
Monitor the forecast – this is crucial to boating safely because the weather can change quickly. This could leave boaters in a bad situation, especially if they aren’t properly prepared. Download a weather app on your phone and set up alerts in your area. This way, you will be notified when a potential thunderstorm is headed your way.
Top free weather apps:
1. Weather Underground
2. RainAware
Top free weather apps:
1. Weather Underground
2. RainAware
3. The Weather Channel
4. NOAA Weather Radar
4. NOAA Weather Radar
Make your Boating Plans Known – make sure someone knows that you are out boating and where you are headed to. This way, in case a storm rolls in and you are unable to return, someone will know where you are. You can also download an app that provides you with your GPS coordinates which you can then send them.
Here are a few:
1. My GPS Coordinates
2. GPS Tracks
3. GPS & Maps: Track Coordinates, Compass + Waypoints
Here are a few:
1. My GPS Coordinates
2. GPS Tracks
3. GPS & Maps: Track Coordinates, Compass + Waypoints
Be Prepared Before You Leave the Dock – knowing how to dock a boat or perform a close-quarters maneuver near the shore can be extremely difficult, especially if the wind is blowing. If necessary, take a boating safety course. You should also have a firm grasp on how to read the weather.
Make sure you have the proper equipment –
Life Jackets - the U.S. Coast Guard requires that all recreational vehicles must carry one Coast Guard-approved life jacket per person on board. Regardless of the weather, it’s always important to wear a life jacket.
Proper Communication Equipment – a VH-FM radio is an important thing to have on your boat. Yes, a cell phone is good too, but those are unreliable and you might not have service in some areas.
Backup Power Source – this is always a great idea to keep on board. You never know when you may need it.
Extra food and water – you should always keep extra water and nonperishable food on board in case of emergencies, or just in case you get hungry.
Life Jackets - the U.S. Coast Guard requires that all recreational vehicles must carry one Coast Guard-approved life jacket per person on board. Regardless of the weather, it’s always important to wear a life jacket.
Proper Communication Equipment – a VH-FM radio is an important thing to have on your boat. Yes, a cell phone is good too, but those are unreliable and you might not have service in some areas.
Backup Power Source – this is always a great idea to keep on board. You never know when you may need it.
Extra food and water – you should always keep extra water and nonperishable food on board in case of emergencies, or just in case you get hungry.
Key Indicators of Changing Weather
- A sudden drop in temperature
- Increasing wind or sudden change in wind direction
- Flat clouds getting lower and thicker
- Heavy static on your AM radio - this can be a sign of nearby thunderstorms
- Reduce your speed - keep enough power to make headway
- Head the boat at a 45-degree angle into the waves
- Make sure everyone on board is wearing a life jacket
- Turn on your running lights
- Keep the bilges free of water
- If absolutely necessary, anchor the boat
Operating a watercraft in a thunderstorm can be dangerous, and we hope that these tips will help you if you ever caught in a storm! The Lake of the Ozarks BEST boat dealer wants help keep all boaters safe at all times to ensure you have a great time out on the water. Visit us at Surdyke Yamaha and we can help you get out on the water!
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