The United States Coast Guard (USCG) closed the Port of Virginia Monday night in anticipation of high winds.
“All vessels will be prohibited from entering or departing Chesapeake Bay. Vessels at 5,000 gross tons or greater will be prohibited from moving within the bay unless permission is granted by the captain of the port,” the USCG said in a statement.
The forecasted winds in the area of up to 50 knots are likely to create particularly hazardous conditions on shore and on the water, according to the USCG.
Due to the anticipated conditions, the USCG said it may be difficult for its units to get underway to assist distressed mariners.
“There is a real danger to all vessels on the water,” Capt. Rick Wester, captain of the port , pointed out.
“The combination of very strong winds, cold temperatures, rough seas and poor visibility all make for very hazardous conditions, and I strongly recommend that mariners stay in port,” Wester added.