Ports closed to vessel traffic

The Captain of the Port Sector North Carolina and Captain of the Port Cape Fear River have set port condition Zulu for all commercial waterways in North Carolina effective 6 a.m. in preparation for the anticipated heavy weather impact of Hurricane Earl.

Gale Force winds of 34 knots or 39 mph are expected to reach Frying Pan Shoals Lighted Buoy 16 within 12 hours. A safety zone for all the inland waters, coastal inlets and territorial seas from Little River Inlet to the North Carolina - Virginia border has been established. The ports of Wilmington and Morehead City are closed to all inbound and outbound traffic. No vessel may enter, depart, or transit within this safety zone without the permission of the Captain of the Port, according to a Coast Guard news release.

1. All cargo and bunker handling operations must cease at this time.

2. A safety zone has been established prohibiting vessels movement and activities unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port. Permission for vessels to move within the port may be granted up to 12 hours before the arrival of hurricane force winds 64 knots or 74 mph at Frying Pan Shoals Lighted Buoy 16 for the port of Wilmington or Cape Lookout Shoals Lighted Buoy 2, light list number 680, for the port of Morehead.

3. All commercial vessels and barges who have received permission from the Captain of the Port to remain in port must be at their mooring site in accordance with their plan.

4. Vessels bound for these ports are advised to seek an alternate destination.

Mariners are also advised that drawbridges will remain closed when wind speeds are 34 knots or greater or once evacuations begin. Because of the uncertainty of weather movements and related bridge closures, mariners are urged to seek passage through drawbridges well in advance of the arrival of gale force winds.

Coast Guard Stations Oregon Inlet, Hatteras Inlet, Ocracoke, and Hobucken are secured from operations in anticipation of the hurricane. The Coast Guard once again urges boaters to stay off the water.

For guidance on specific issues or to obtain vessel applications to remain in port contact Sector North Carolina at 252-247-4570 or Marine Safety Unit Wilmington at 910-512-5830.