Weather can change very rapidly and create unexpected
situations for vessel operators. Even meteorologists have trouble predicting rapid weather changes. You should always monitor weather developments. One way is to tune a VHF radio to the frequencies listed below.
| Channel # |
Purpose of Channel |
| 6 |
Intership safety communications only |
| 9 |
Communications between vessels (commercial and recreational), and ship to coast |
| 13 |
Navigational use by commercial, military, and recreational vessels at bridges, locks, and harbors |
| 16 |
Distress and safety calls to U. S. Coast Guard and others, and to initiate calls to other vessels |
| 22 |
U.S. Coast Guard broadcasts of severe weather warnings, hazards to navigation, and other safety warnings |
| 24-28 |
Public telephone calls (to marine operator) |
| 68, 69, 71 |
Recreational vessel radio channels and ship
to coast |
| Daytime Flags & Nighttime Lights |
What the Signals
Mean |
 |
Small Craft Advisory: Winds in the range of 21 to 33 knots (24 to 38 mph) which are conditions considered dangerous to small boats. |
 |
Gale Warning: Winds in the range of 34 to 47 knots (39 to 54 mph). |
 |
Storm Warning: Winds 48 knots (55 mph) and above. If the winds are associated with a tropical cyclone, this warning forecasts winds of 48 to 63 knots. |
 |
Hurricane Warning: Winds of 64 knots (74 mph) and above, displayed in connection with a hurricane. |