Coast Guard Warns of Hazardous Conditions Due to Storm

U.S. Coast Guard officials are urging Bay Area boaters and beachgoers to take caution while along the coast today because of strong weather conditions forecasted through this weekend.

Cold temperatures, rain, high winds and heavy seas are expected to affect Bay Area beaches from Sonoma County all the way down to Monterey County, according to the Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard strongly encourages owners of small crafts such as skiffs, kayaks and paddleboards to properly secure them and mark them with identifying information in the event they break free.

Coast Guard officials encourage boaters to always have a working VHF-FM radio and lifejackets for all passengers and to file a float plan with friends, family members or a local marina before heading out on the water.

People taking their dogs to the beach should make sure to protect them from large waves and to not try to rescue the dog if it's in a surf zone, according to the Coast Guard.

Related:

• Snow Report for Santa Cruz County Residents Headed to Tahoe: Jan. 18
  
• Wind Advisory Issued for New Storms Headed to Santa Cruz Co. This Week: NWS

By Bay City News

Photo courtesy Renee Schiavone/ Patch