Thunderstorms & Boating - Safety?

Question

My father likes to go bass fishing but recently in Western MA there have been a string of dangerous thunderstorms. Some without any warning. He usually goes far out on rivers (to the best fishing spots) and it takes a bit to get back to the boat ramp. What are some devices that can be used to warn about dangerous weather? What tips can you give for better safety?

Answer 1

A weather radio is the best idea, but you have to know where your at becasue they usually tell the locations of severe weather based on counties and towns in the areas of the storms.

Answer 2

Usually, a thunderstorm can be seen coming, or at least  heard. When the first crack of thunder is heard, your dad should head for shelter, which may or may not be the boat ramp. It is better to be on shore and getting wet than to be in a boat in a thunderstorm.

Regards,

Dan

Answer 3

listen to the weather

have a back up motor

keep the radio on and when you here crackling get back to the dock  lightning is not far behind

Answer 4

Take a weather radio with you and always check the clouds and let someone know where you are going and where you left from.

Answer 5

We carry a weather radio. It a simple battery operated one. If we see bad weather on the horizon we head for land. Maybe he should get a small tent to carry in his boat for those pop up storms. You do not want to be on the water when it is lightning!

Answer 6

An AM radio, tuned between stations, will give an audible indication of lightening nearby.

Answer 7

Should have a VHF radio;  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather reports, which are updated each hour can be picked up on a VHF Marine Radio.  An AM/FM radio tuned to AM stations will pick up the static from an approaching storm and you will hear the static.  

Before going check the weather forecast, today there are multiple places to get great information like the weather channel, local news, the Internet, NOAA web site.  

While out be alert to weather conditions. Accumulating dark clouds, shifting winds, and graying skies all may be indications of danger. Listen for distant thunder.  Be observant of weather from all directions; however, closely watch the weather to the west, the direction from which most bad weather arrives.  If possible, head for the nearest shore that is safe to approach. If already caught in a storm, it may be best to ride it out in open water rather than try to approach the shore in heavy wind and waves.  

And the number one advice is let someone know where he is going and when he plans to return.

Answer 8

call friend to check weather im not sure

Answer 9

Your eyes.

VHF radio

AM/FM Radio

Tip: if you get stuck don't race to get back to the ramp. Hole up in a cove or marina and ride it out.