A WARNING has gone out to shipping agents that adverse weather conditions could impact the Port of Fremantle today and tomorrow (20 and 21 April).
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather watch for later today which the shipping agents’ memo said could affect shipping.
“To ensure good risk management during the adverse weather and in the interests of port, terminal infrastructure and vessel safety, the following will be implemented in preparation for the adverse weather," the warning memo stated.
Vessels at the FPA Inner anchorages – Vessels at Gage Roads, ORAN and ORA anchorages may be instructed to proceed to sea for the period of impact by Fremantle VTS. Any decision to leave a vessel at anchor will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. This requirement is based upon forecast wind force and prolonged directional impact expected at these anchorages. All charges for pilotage and towage shall be to the vessel’s account.
Vessels at the FPA Outer anchorages - Vessels may be required to heave anchor and proceed to sea for the period of impact.
Vessels at Cockburn Sound berths (KBT, KBJ, ALCOA, ORJ, AMC) and Inner Harbour berths may be required to evacuate their respective berths on a case-by-case basis to minimise risk.
“Fremantle Ports’ scheduling team will keep agents informed accordingly. All charges for unberthing / berthing pilotage and towage shall be to the vessel’s account," the memo stated.
The note was sent out on Sunday and said preparations for vessel evacuation would get under way then.
The port said it would keep agents informed of any changes and would send notifications regarding the resumption of berthing of vessels.
The notice said it is important that all vessels evacuating from the port stayed clear of Fremantle Ports’ approaches and the surrounding coastal areas.
No other WA ports are expecting to be impacted by the weather today or tomorrow.