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Domestic shipowners and ship operators were advised to take precautionary measures in preparation for Tropical Storm Rai (local name Odette)
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Rai is forecast to the enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility between Tuesday afternoon and Tuesday evening
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) advised domestic shipowners and ship operators to take precautionary measures in preparation for Tropical Storm Rai (local name Odette), forecast to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) between Tuesday afternoon and Tuesday evening.
Shipowners were advised to monitor and comply with weather announcements from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and the daily Notices to Mariners issued by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority and the Philippine Coast Guard relating to sea state and gale warnings.
Additionally, MARINA said communication equipment should always be observed closely to maintain safety and avoid disaster on board and at sea. All concerned entities must ensure compliance with the Strict Implementation of Code of Safety Stowage and Securing in the Domestic Shipping.
Ships should not sail if the ports of destination or areas of operations are affected by even the lowest signal of weather disturbance, and shipowners must ensure their ships have been put to shelter without delay, the maritime authority noted.
MARINA urged officers and crew members to be alert at all times. It noted that preparation for abrupt changes in weather conditions is necessary as areas which may have been considered sheltered could quickly become exposed.
As the prompt dissemination information is imperative during typhoons and other weather disturbances, MARINA advised shipowners to follow warnings and advice of government forces stationed at the ports regarding the movement of vessels during heavy weather.
Lastly, in areas or ports with no government regulators, all concerned should observe precautions and police their operations.
