NEW ORLEANS — The Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) New Orleans has set port condition normal as of 6 p.m., Thursday, following waterway assessments and coordination with federal, state, and local partners.
Vessel movement and cargo operations are authorized within the COTP New Orleans Zone.
The following waterway restrictions remain in effect:
- The Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) from the West Closure Complex to Mile Marker 20 West of Harvey Locks (WHL) is closed to all vessel traffic. The Algiers Canal to the West Closure Complex is open to vessel traffic.
- The Inner Harbor Navigational Canal (IHNC) Lock is closed due to reverse head conditions.
Although some waterways are open to traffic, shoaling, storm debris, and other hazards may still exist. Mariners must be mindful of their vessel wake, as flooding conditions may exist in many communities near waterways. Aids to Navigation may also be damaged or missing. Mariners transiting the area should use caution, and report any Aids to Navigation damage, obstructions, and/or other waterways issues to Sector New Orleans Command Center at (504) 365-2209.
Additional guidance regarding Hurricane Francine will be issued in the form of further Marine Safety Information Bulletins (MSIBs), Broadcast Notice to Mariners, or other forms as necessary.
U.S. Coast Guard Sector New Orleans continues to work closely with coordinating agencies to include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assess critical waterways.
“Reopening the economically vital ports of South Louisiana is crucial for restoring the flow of commerce on the marine transportation system. As the gateway to America’s Heartland, these ports are essential for delivering supplies and maintaining the flow of goods across the region and globe,” said Capt. Gregory Callaghan, Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector New Orleans. “Despite challenges presented by Hurricane Francine, our team and our port industry partners worked tirelessly to restore the unrestricted and safe flow of commerce.”
For media inquiries, please contact Coast Guard Public Affairs at: uscoastguardheartland@gmail.com; 618-225-9008.
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