Gale-force winds expected: Storm brings a turbulent weekend to the North Sea and the Baltic Sea

Low-pressure system ‘Austen’ is forecast to move across the British Isles towards the North Sea on Friday 23 October. The British The Met Office expects conditions to deteriorate rapidly. The exact track and the location of the strongest winds are still uncertain.

As early as this coming weekend, 24 and 25 October, another low-pressure system could bring strong south-westerly winds to the Dutch and German North Sea coasts. Strong gusts are also expected on the Baltic Sea. The latest local warnings remain the key factor.

Arrange the transport and crane appointment in good time

An agreed crane-out date is no reason to launch your boat in unsafe conditions. Anyone who still needs to take their motorboat into winter storage should, depending on the situation and local conditions, discuss postponing the date with the boatyard or crane operator at an early stage.

Even in sheltered waters, gusts of wind can make manoeuvring difficult. Before setting off, it is therefore important to check not only the conditions at the time of departure, but also the expected weather conditions right up to arrival. Whilst inland routes offer protection from heavy seas, they do not protect against strong gusts or restrictions at bridges and locks.

Making motorboats in the harbour storm-proof

Preparations should be made in daylight and before strong winds set in. Check mooring lines for wear and chafing; double them if necessary and distribute the load across several suitable attachment points. Spring lines and suitable shock absorbers can reduce load peaks. Sufficient slack must be allowed for fluctuations in water level.

Fenders are among the parts of the boat that are actually at risk. Biminis, loose harbour covers and other large surfaces exposed to the wind should be removed. Any remaining covers must be securely fastened. Loose equipment should be stowed below deck, and hatches and lockers should be closed.

Anyone who is unable to get to the boat themselves should ask the harbour master or a trusted person to check on it.

Sturm remains a risk even at the away ground

On land, particular attention must be paid to support blocks, props and the ground surface. After prolonged rain, a support block may sink into loose ground. Additional safety measures must be carried out by the storage operator or competent personnel. Owners must not adjust props or supports without authorisation.

Large tarpaulins and tall tarpaulin frames provide the wind with additional surface area to catch. Tarpaulins must be secured tightly and correctly, without placing any strain on supports or wooden blocks or allowing them to be pulled out of position. Neighbouring boats should also be taken into account during the inspection.

Before every journey and every crane manoeuvre, the current Weather warnings from the DWD to be reviewed again. The forecasts may change as the lows develop further.

Is your boat still in the water or in outdoor storage? What precautions are you taking ahead of the forecast strong winds? Share your experiences in the comments.