At 2200 local time on September 9th, 2024, in preparation for the approaching Tropical Storm Francine, the Captain of the Port (COTP) New Orleans will set Port Condition YANKEE in accordance with the Maritime Hurricane Contingency Port Plan (MHCPP) found at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/new-orleans.
Port Status: Vessel traffic control measures in effect.
RNA Status: At this point, the Coast Guard does not intend to activate the RNAs.
All vessels entering and departing the COTP Zone New Orleans are reminded to update their Notice of Arrival with any changes to their arrival or departure information (33 CFR 160.208 and 33 CFR 160.212). The COTP has also outlined specific port preparation requirements and recommendations in the MHCPP.
Mariners are advised that drawbridges will close when wind speeds exceed 35 mph or once evacuation begins. As a result, mariners are urged to seek passage through drawbridges well in advance of the arrival of gale force winds. For most up to date bridge information please contact Coast Guard District Eight Bridges at D8DPBALL@uscg.mil.
The Coast Guard does not intend to implement the safety zone for river evacuation below MM 73. The Coast Guard urges vessel owners and operators to follow the guidance and policy contained within the
“Mile Marker (MM) 73 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)” (found at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/new-orleans) for the fleeting of barges and to ensure there is appropriate horsepower on standby to ensure the safety of fleets. These requirements will be further discussed on the Port Coordination Team conference calls and reassessed as needed.
Port partners and mariners are cautioned that the COTP New Orleans may quickly set Port Condition ZULU as the situation develops. You are strongly encouraged to review your existing hurricane plan, take actions to minimize risk, and be prepared to evacuate, if necessary. For recommended precautionary measures and storm preparation checklists refer to MHCPP found at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/new-orleans. Vessels intending to remain in the port must complete a Remaining-in-Port Checklist to the Vessel Traffic Service Lower Mississippi River (VTS) as listed below. All COTP New Orleans MHCPP hurricane forms can be accessed using the QR Code below or at https://linktr.ee/secnolahurricanereporting.
· VESSEL Remaining In Port Checklist Reporting Tool – submit within 24 hours to Vessel Traffic Service via email D08-PF-VTSNewOrleans-LMR@uscg.mil or fax at (504) 365-2519
· RNA FACILITIES with AHOP - 72 Hour Storm Specific Verification Report – submit via email to WWMNOLA@uscg.mil
For additional information, contact the following:
Disclaimer: For quality assurance purposes please note well that while the information contained in this website is regularly vetted for accuracy it is not intended to replace the local knowledge or expertise pertaining to port conditions of our marine operations personnel.
News Bulletin
Sign up to receive updates about port conditions, important notices, and other news.
