Below is a list of possible Hurricane Conditions:

Hurricane Condition 1 - Whiskey

• This condition is set when gale force winds of 34 KTS/39 MPH from a hurricane force storm are expected to arrive at the port within 72 hours.
• All oceangoing commercial vessels greater than 500 gross tons must prepare to depart the port at least 24 hours prior to gale force winds.
• Vessels that are unable to depart the port must contact the Captain of the Port to request and receive permission to remain in port.
• Drawbridges may not be operating as early as eight hours prior to the anticipated arrival of sustained gale force winds or when an evacuation is in progress.

Hurricane Condition 2 - X-Ray

• Readiness conditions in which threatening winds of 34 KTS/39 MPH are possible within 48 hours.
• The Port should be removing potential flying debris, hazardous materials and oil pollution hazards from dockside areas.
• Coast Guard Port Survey Teams are conducting surveys.
• Oceangoing commercial vessels greater than 500 gross tons must prepare to depart the port.
• Vessels that are unable to depart the port must contact the Captain of the Port to request and receive permission to remain in port.

Hurricane Condition 3 - Yankee

• This condition is set when threatening winds of 34 KTS/39 MPH are possible within 24 hours.
• The maritime community should anticipate the Captain of the Port’s closure of the port during Port Hurricane Condition Yankee.
• Port closure will usually involve the establishment of a Coast Guard Safety Zone.  If a Safety Zone is established, no vessel may enter into or transit the Safety Zone area without permission from the Captain of the Port or his designated representative.
• Additional Safety Zones may be established after the storm has passed in order to expedite the clean up, protect the public from storm caused hazards, and prevent unlawful acts against unmanned vessels, waterfront facilities, or marine wrecks.

Hurricane Condition 4 - Zulu

• This is the danger condition in which threatening winds of 34 KTS/39 MPH are possible within 12 hours.
• Port will be closed to inbound vessel traffic and cargo traffic.
• A safety zone prohibiting all vessel movement within the ports will be established.
• Drawbridges in the area may not be operating as early as eight hours prior to the anticipated arrival of sustained gale force winds or when an evacuation is in progress.