Gunsan Coast Guard: "Rough Sea Warning in the Western Offshore... Ships Must Navigate with Caution"

Bad Weather Expected Until the 25th... 'Waves Up to 5m' Forecasted

Risk Alert System 'Interest' Level Extended... Until the 12th of Next Month

Gunsan Maritime Police Station (Chief Park Kyung-chae) announced that the maritime weather deterioration has reached a level threatening safe navigation until the 25th, urging fishing vessels and operating ships to exercise caution.

According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on the 22nd, a storm warning has been issued for the southern offshore waters of the West Sea, and a caution advisory for other maritime areas. Winds are expected to blow very strongly at speeds of 35 to 65 km/h (10 to 18 m/s), with waves reaching heights of up to 5 meters.

A large Coast Guard vessel operating in the distant waters of the West Sea.
[Photo by Gunsan Coast Guard]

The maritime police plan to strengthen patrols of vessels and facilities docked at ports and harbors, and to broadcast safety warnings using outdoor electronic signboards and broadcasting devices at police substations.

As the adverse weather is expected to continue until the 25th, they will guide operating and fishing vessels to return to port, and provide real-time local sea weather information from deployed patrol vessels.

A representative of Gunsan Maritime Police stated, "During adverse weather, even minor accidents can lead to serious casualties, so please refrain from reckless fishing and evacuate early to a safe location." They also urged, "Ship managers should reinforce mooring ropes to prevent safety accidents such as vessels colliding with dock facilities due to strong winds and waves, and inspect ships and facilities."

Meanwhile, the maritime police have extended the winter season safety accident risk forecast system's 'Attention' stage, which was in effect until the 20th, until the 12th of next month. They will strengthen patrols of dangerous areas such as rocky shores and breakwater structures, as well as restricted access zones, to prevent coastal safety accidents during the winter season.