COMMANDER
U.S. COAST GUARD
SECTOR DELAWARE BAY
1 WASHINGTON AVE
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19147
TEL: (215) 271-4800
FAX: (215) 271-4833

MARINE SAFETY INFORMATION BULLETIN

[MSIB # 25-16]
September 3, 2016

NOTICE OF PORT CONDITION X-RAY (MODIFIED)

The Captain of the Port (COTP) has set Hurricane Port Condition X-RAY (Modified) due to the potential for Hurricane/Tropical Storm Hermine to impact the Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware tri-state area in the next 48 hours. A thorough explanation of port conditions can be found in homeport at http://homeport.uscg.mil/delawarebay.

The COTP, Delaware Bay has determined that the Port of Philadelphia and surrounding areas will likely experience high winds, severe thunderstorms, and increased seas, surf, and tidal surge. Members of the port community are to take adequate precautions and follow the Port Hurricane Contingency Plan, to include Section 406, and comply with the requirements of Section 1200, “Storm Preparation Checklists for Vessels and Facilities.” All self propelled ocean going vessels over 200 gross tons and ocean going barges and their supporting tugs that desire to remain in port through the storm must submit a “Remaining in Port Checklist” by 10:00 a.m. on September 4, 2016. All checklists should be sent to the following email: secdelbaycc@uscg.mil. An up to date Port Hurricane Contingency Plan can be found on Homeport at http://homeport.uscg.mil/delawarebay. Vessel agents shall ensure their ships are provided a copy of the Port Hurricane Contingency Plan. Please note:

COTP approval is not necessary for a vessel to remain in port.
Based on current projections, the COTP does not anticipate setting Port Condition Yankee or Zulu. However, the COTP will continue to evaluate the need for additional measures as the storm progresses.
Lightering, bunkering, and cargo operations must cease when sustained wind speeds reach 40 mph.

In the event that the COTP imposes limitations or restrictions, they will be broadcast on VHF-FM Channel 16. Additionally, notification will be forwarded to the Maritime Exchange and will be available as requested. The U.S. Coast Guard will provide the earliest possible advance notification before changing port operational status. Please refer to Homeport for additional information and checklists.

If there are any questions regarding the contents of this bulletin or expectations of the Captain of the Port, please contact (215) 271-4807.



B. A. COOPER
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard
Captain of the Port, Delaware Bay