New Orleans issues low water safety advisory for Mississippi River

by The Editorial Team

September 24, 2021            

As a result of the Baton Rouge gauge reading 12 feet and falling, New Orleans issued a low water safety advisory for all waters of the Lower Mississippi River (LMR) from Mile 167.5 Above Head of Passes (AHP) to Mile 303 AHP.

Namely, the safety advisory is needed to protect vessels and mariners from hazards associated with low water, including possible shoaling and decreased channel widths.

Commercial vessel operators shall be aware of falling river conditions and monitor USCG safety broadcasts announcing known navigation trouble spots.

1. All mariners should review facility docking procedures for low water conditions prior to arriving at the facility.

2. Mariners are advised of the increased possibility of shoaling and should use extreme caution while transiting. If shoaling is experienced or discovered, please notify the Sector New Orleans Command Center.

3. All mariners are advised to promptly report missing aids to navigation to the Sector New Orleans Command Center.                   

• In accordance with 33 CFR 161.65(e), all vessels moving or intending to move in the 81 Mile Point VTS Special area shall comply with the reporting requirements detailed in the VTS Lower Mississippi River User Manual or in 33 CFR 161.65 by   contacting “New Orleans Traffic” on VHF FM Channel 05A.

• Mariners are also advised of the increased possibility of shoaling in this area and should use extreme caution while transiting.  Report missing aids to navigation to the Sector New Orleans Command Center