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Chapter 3: Launching and Operation

The Coastal Warning Display Program

Checking the Weather Radio Broadcast is the first defense against running into hazardous conditions. The Coastal Warning Display Program is the next.

The Coastal Warning and Display Program is a NOAA system used to warn boaters of hazardous conditions before going out onto the water. If one sees any of the following signals it is not recommended, and some cases outright dangerous, to go boating.

Small Craft Advisory

Small Craft Advisory

Winds of 18 to 33 knots or 24 to 38 miles per hour

Gale Warning

Gale Warning

Winds of 34 to 47 knots or 39 to 54 miles per hour

Storm Warning

Storm Warning

Winds greater than 48 knots or 55 miles per hour

Hurricane Warning

Hurricane Warning

Winds greater than 64 knots or 74 miles per hour

In addition to these warnings and signals, be on the lookout for:

Special Marine Warning: Observed or forecast winds of 34 knots or higher along with a storm forecasted to last more than two hours.

Tropical Storm Warning: Observed or forecast winds of 34 to 64 knots or 39 to 74 miles per hour.