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Criteria SC-C (Caution): Wind speeds of 18 MPH (16 Knots) or greater, including gusts, have been observed for at least 3 hours. Locally assessed conditions warrant that individuals participating in water activities have extensive experience both in the planned activity and at the location. SC-D (Danger): Wind speeds of 35 MPH (30 Knots) or greater, including gusts, have been observed and are to persist for at least 3 hours or during Tropical Cyclone Condition of Readiness (TCCOR) 2. Locally assessed conditions are dangerous and warrant restricting access to the water and removal of individuals from the water. Note – Military facilities will cease rental of water recreation equipment in SC-D. IMPORTANT NOTE: Conditions and criteria are based on a generalized evaluation and may not be consistent with the weather and sea state throughout the entire coastline of Okinawa. Therefore, personnel must make an individual assessment of the hazards for their intended activity during SC-AC and SC-C. |
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| In an effort to protect Airmen and their families, the 18th Wing commander emphasizes the following policies, which are mandatory for all active duty Airmen assigned here. The commander encourages family members and civilian employees to follow it as well. -- Before participating in any water-related activity, personnel will check the official Okinawa sea conditions set by the Kadena weather flight (see explanation below). -- No personnel will engage in any water-related activities, including, but not limited to swimming, surfing, kayaking, scuba diving, etc. during SEA CONDITION DANGER or when local conditions result in the closure of a beach/coastal area. -- During SEA CONDITION WARNING, personnel will assess the sea conditions and wear the appropriate PPE at all times. -- Swimmers will use the buddy-system when swimming in areas without lifeguards. -- Personnel will not participate in cliff/bridge jumping or diving. -- Scuba divers shall be certified, wear the appropriate PPE and stay within required guidelines of Kadena ABI 34-101, which can be found online at kadenaforcesupport.com/marina/Marina-OI-34-101.pdf -- Snorkelers entering the water at locations without lifeguards will wear appropriately sized personal floatation device and buddy system. -- Surfers/body boarders will attach a leash from the user to the board. -- Personal Water Craft operators and occupants will wear approved PFD (e.g. life vest) at all times. Operator must have a tethered kill switch/cord. -- Personnel in sea kayaks will wear an approved PFD at all times. Most DANGEROUS water spots Some areas have been the site of more of the U.S. military's fatalities and near misses. Marine Corps Base Camp Butler Installation Safety lists the seven most dangerous spots as: -- Camp Zampa Misaki, also known as Bolo Point, is just west of Torii Station. -- Maeda Point is near Onna Village. -- Miyagi Island is part of the Ikei Island chain. The popular Big Time Resort is here. -- Hedo Misaki, also called Hedo Point or Cape Hedo, is at the island's northern tip. -- Onna Point is in Onna Village. -- Hiji Falls is near Okuma Military Resort. -- Ikei Island Bridge is near White Beach Naval Facility. Warning signs for SOFA personnel are posted at all above locations except for Hiji Falls where signs strictly prohibit SOFA personnel from entering the water. |
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For operational mission essential questions, call DSN 634-3140 Comm’l 011-81-614-734-3140