Know Before You Boat
- City of Riverside
- Aug 18
- 2 min read
Boating in Alabama offers breathtaking experiences but, while the waters are inviting, weather conditions can shift suddenly, putting boaters at serious risk. Knowing how to prepare for and respond to severe weather is essential for keeping yourself, your passengers, and your vessel safe.
Alabama’s climate is unpredictable. Afternoon thunderstorms in the summer can quickly transform a fun outing into a dangerous situation. Lightning strikes, high winds, and rapidly building waves are among the greatest hazards boaters face.
Checking the forecast before you leave dock is essential. Monitor multiple sources including the NOAA Marine Weather Forecast, local TV and radio stations, and weather apps before heading out. Understand marine warnings and know the difference between advisories, watches, and warnings. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is a strong signal to stay off the water. Look at the radar, not just temperature. Pop-up thunderstorms can form quickly in Alabama. A live radar helps spot storms before they reach your area.
Even if forecasts look good, keep your eyes on the sky. Watch for dark, fast-moving clouds building on the horizon, sudden temperature drops or gusty winds, increasing choppiness or whitecaps on the water, frequent lightning flashes. If you notice these signs, it’s time to head back to shore immediately.
Sometimes storms move in faster than expected. If you find yourself
caught in severe weather:
Put on life jackets: Everyone on board should wear a PFD immediately.
Head to shore if safe: Move toward the nearest safe harbor or shoreline.
Reduce speed: Slow down to maintain control but keep enough power to steer.
Avoid metal during lightning: Stay low in the boat, avoid touching metal, and disconnect electronics if possible.
Boating is one of Alabama’s greatest outdoor joys, but the weather can turn quickly. A few minutes of preparation — checking forecasts, reviewing safety plans, and keeping gear ready — can make the difference between a safe return and a dangerous situation.