At 1600 local time, October 25, 2020, in preparation for the approaching Tropical Storm ZETA, the Captain of the Port (COTP) New Orleans will set Port Condition WHISKEY in accordance with the Maritime Hurricane Contingency Port Plan (MHCPP) found at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/new-orleans.
Port Status: Open to all commercial traffic.
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 Code of Federal Regulations 160.208, 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, please contact Coast Guard District Eight Bridges at (504) 671-2128 or D8DPBALL@uscg.mil.
Port partners and mariners are cautioned that the COTP New Orleans may set Port Condition X-RAY and further conditions 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 the 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) Waterfront FACILITIES Storm Preparation Checklist (Port Condition WHISKEY) – submit via email to FacilitiesNOLA@uscg.mil or D08-DG-MSUBatonRouge-Bullpen@uscg.mil.
(2) VESSEL Remaining In Port Checklist Reporting Tool – submit within 24 hours to Vessel Traffic Service via email D08-PF-VTSNewOrleans-LMR@uscg.mil or fax at (504) 365-2519
(3) RNA FACILITIES with AHOP – 72 Hour Storm Specific Verification Report – submit via email to SecNOLA-WPM@uscg.mil
For additional information, contact the following:
Waterways Management: 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 or D8DPBALL@uscg.mil
National Response Center (24 Hour): 1-800-424-8802
