Setting of Port Condition YANKEE
At 1200 local time, September 13, 2020, in preparation for the approaching Tropical Storm SALLY, the Captain of the Port (COTP), Sector New Orleans will set Port Condition YANKEE in accordance with the Maritime Hurricane Contingency Port Plan (MHCPP) found at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/new-orleans.
Port Status: Vessel traffic control measures in effect.
RNA Status: The COTP has ordered the enforcement of the Hurricane Regulated Navigation Areas (RNA) – East, described in Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 165.838. Refer to MSIB Volume XX Issue 099 for details.
All vessels entering and departing the COTP Zone New Orleans are reminded to update their Notice of Arrival with any changes to their arrival or departure information (33 CFR 160.208 and 33 CFR 160.212). The COTP has also outlined specific port preparation requirements and recommendations in the MHCPP.
Mariners are advised that drawbridges will close when wind speeds exceed 35 mph or once evacuation begins. As a result, mariners are urged to seek passage through drawbridges well in advance of the arrival of gale force winds. For most up to date bridge information and contact information please visit http://wwwapps.dotd.la.gov/operations/ferrystatus/fmbs_status.aspx?PID=B_STATUS.
Vessel owners and operators are reminded of the “Mile Marker (MM) 73 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)” providing barge fleet owners and operators with policy and guidance for the fleeting of barges in this area during hurricane season. At this time, the Coast Guard does not intend to implement the safety zone for river evacuation below MM 73. However, these requirements will be discussed on the Port Coordination Team conference calls and reassessed as needed.
Port partners and mariners are cautioned that the COTP New Orleans may quickly set Port Condition ZULU and as the situation develops. You are strongly encouraged to review your existing hurricane plan, take actions to minimize risk, and be prepared to evacuate, if necessary. For recommended precautionary measures and storm preparation checklists refer to MHCPP found at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/new-orleans. Vessels intending to remain in the port must submit a Remaining-in-Port Checklist to the Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River (VTS) as listed below.
Attachments:
(1) Storm Preparation Checklist for Waterfront Facilities (Port Condition YANKEE) – submit via email to FacilitiesNOLA@uscg.mil or MSUBatonrougefacilities@uscg.mil.
(2) 72 Hour Storm Specific Verification Report Form (Facilities within RNA with an Annual Hurricane Operations Plan) – submit via email to SecNOLA-WPM@uscg.mil
(3) Remaining In Port Checklist Reporting Tool – submit immediately to Vessel Traffic Service via fax at (504) 365-2519 or email D08-PF-VTSNewOrleans-LMR@uscg.mil
For additional information, contact the following:
Waterways Management: (504) 365-2280 Email address: SecNOLA-WPM@uscg.mil
Sector New Orleans Command Center (24 hour): (504) 365-2200
Vessel Traffic Center (24 Hour): (504) 365-2514 or VHF-FM channels 5A, 12, or 67
Coast Guard District Eight Bridges: (504) 671-2128
National Response Center (24 Hour): 1-800-424-8802
