JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The Coast Guard says rough surf from Sandy could pose a danger to boaters during the Georgia vs. Florida game day weekend. Boaters could encounter
dangerously high winds and swells off the coast of Northeast Florida, and on the St. Johns River.
Winds are expected to reach 27-32 knots on the St. Johns River and offshore seas will reach about 40 feet, Friday and Saturday.“The Georgia-Florida football game is an exciting time in Jacksonville, but we want to remind boaters to use added caution this weekend as Hurricane Sandy brings heavy winds and seas,” said Cmdr. Brian Rush, chief of response at Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville. “I’m encouraging mariners to keep their boats tied to the docks this weekend and enjoy the game from land until these high winds and seas pass by.”
Recreational boaters considering a trip downtown for the Georgia vs. Florida football game are reminded to use caution and wear life jackets as wind gusts and river chop can overturn boats, sometimes without warning.
The Coast Guard is encouraging fishermen to stay closer to shore this weekend to avoid the rough waters. High winds and dangerous sea conditions can limit the Coast Guard’s ability to respond to maritime emergencies.
