Captain of the Port sets Port Condition X-RAY for the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico

DATE: September 2, 2009 9:53:08 AM EDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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News Release

Date:
Sept. 2, 2009

Contact:
Ricardo Castrodad
(787) 510-7923

Captain of the Port sets Port Condition X-RAY for the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
“Tropical Storm Erika Update 1"

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The Coast Guard Sector San Juan Captain of the Port, Capt. Eduardo Pino, set Port Condition X-RAY at 8 a.m. Wednesday for all the ports in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico due to the expectation that gale force winds generated by Tropical Storm Erika will arrive within 48 hours.

All marine operations including waterfront facility and vessel transits may occur until further notice and are subject to prudent seamanship and safe working practices.

"WARNING"

During Port Condition X-RAY waterfront facilities should be removing potential flying debris, hazardous materials and pollutants from dockside areas. All oceangoing commercial vessels greater than 200 gross tons must prepare to depart the port and shall depart immediately upon setting and increasing port conditions to YANKEE. Vessels unable to depart the port must contact the Captain of the Port and submit a safe mooring plan in writing when requesting and prior to receiving permission to remain in port. Inbound vessels that will be unable to depart the port upon the setting of port condition YANKEE are advised to seek an alternate destination.

Ports, facilities and operators should anticipate additional restrictions on inbound and outbound traffic as Tropical Storm Erika approaches.

Mariners should prepare for impending severe weather prior to the anticipated arrival of gale force winds or when an evacuation is in progress.

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