Rick Hale
The Fishing Connection
jacksonvillefishingconnection.com
904.372.4689

Florida is growing so fast and many of the people want to be on the water. There is a lot to talk about  safety and rules of using our water ways and ocean. This article is about something many do not pay attention to and that is marine weather flags.

Weather Warning Signals: these have been adopted by the U.S. Weather Bureau. Called maritime weather warning flags:

Small Craft Warning   
The small craft warning indicates a forecast of high winds up to 33 knots (38 mph).

Small Craft Advisory - Gale Warning
Winds predicted between 34 and 47 knots (39 to 54 mph).

Storm Warning
Formerly known as a "whole gale" warning, this signifies winds of 48 knots or more, or 48 to 63 knots (55 to 73  mph) in the case of a tropical cyclone.

Hurricane Warning
A tropical cyclone with winds exceeding 64 knots (74 mph).

The National Weather Service discontinued posting the actual flag warnings at its own stations on February 15, 1989, on the grounds that they were less reliable than marine radio broadcasts and other modern methods of communication but the symbols are still used particularly in today’s electronic communication.

Watch the announcement area on the Control Panel of the Reservation System for announcements on sea conditions.  Jax Boat Club does not boat during Small Craft Advisories or more severe warnings.