Out on the water? Check the weather before you go

26/01/2012

Australians love the outdoors, and the Australia Day weekend is a great opportunity to get out on the water. Boating, fishing or soaking up the sun, there are a few things you'll want to check before you go out on the water.

Bureau of Meteorology National Manager for Marine Weather Services, Neal Moodie, says the Bureau's website is a one-stop-shop for lots of information to ensure you're prepared for the type of conditions you can expect out on the water.

"In addition to land-based weather and warnings, the Bureau provides round-the-clock marine forecasts and wind warnings. These have been further expanded to include forecast maps of Australia's coastal waters with the release of Marine Forecast Explorer.

"The exciting thing about Marine Forecast Explorer is that it is user friendly, and easy to understand. You can point and click on your exact location, which generates a forecast for that location - in three hour blocks - for the next four days.

"Once you're out on the water you can also stay tuned in to current conditions using the inshore VHF Marine Radio Weather Services," said Mr Moodie.

There are four things to take note of when planning your boating trip:

• Are warnings current for your boating area?
  Warnings are the highest priority forecasts. They warn of potentially dangerous wind conditions expected during the next 24 hours. Winds of 26 knots or more usually indicate rough conditions for most boats.
  
  
• Are there weather conditions affecting safe navigation?
  Our coastal water forecasts provide information about conditions that may affect safe boating. Take note of forecasts indicating reduced visibility from fog or rain, or risks to safety and comfort from thunderstorms, lightning or squall conditions.
  
  
• What are the wind trends?
  To plan your trip for the best conditions, look for forecast trends in wind speeds and shifts in wind direction over the day. Forecast winds are average wind speeds, with gusts being up to 40 per cent stronger.
  
  
• What are the wave conditions?
  Also take note of swell and sea wave conditions and how your boat reacts to short, sharp sea waves against longer and flatter, but more powerful, swell waves. Swell waves don't enter enclosed waterways, but do have a dramatic effect on entrances to these areas.

Plan your journey, and ensure it's a safe one!

Go to Check the weather for further information.