Preparing for a Storm on a Narrowboat
Navigating the canals in a narrowboat is an experience that brings both rewards and challenges. One of these challenges is the unpredictable British weather.
While storms on canals may not pose the same threats as they do in open seas, they still demand careful preparation and awareness. Here’s how you can ensure your safety and that of your narrowboat when a storm looms.
Stay Informed: Before setting off on any journey, always check the weather forecast for the areas you’ll be travelling through. The Met Office provides accurate and up-to-date weather warnings, which can be particularly useful for boaters.
If a storm is forecast here are some ways you can help prepare your narrowboat.
Secure Your Narrowboat: When you know a storm is coming it’s time to batten down the hatches:
- Mooring: If you have time and conditions are still suitable for cruising find a sheltered spot away from trees, power lines and anything else that can be blown down by strong winds. Double up on mooring pins and ropes for added security. Set up spring lines to reduce the movement of your boat.
- Windows & Hatches: Ensure all windows, hatches, and doors are firmly closed and locked. This prevents water ingress and potential damage.
- Canopy and Cratch Covers: Ensure these are tightly secured or, if possible, taken down to avoid them getting torn or even completely ripped off your narrowboat.
Keep the Water Out: Check that your bilge pumps are working. It is good practice to always carry a spare bilge pump.
Disconnect Electrical Appliances: Turn off and disconnect electrical appliances to prevent potential damage from power surges or lightning strikes.
Secure Loose Items: Inside the boat, ensure all items are stowed away securely. On the roof or decks, remove or secure anything that might blow away, like chairs, plant pots, barge poles or bicycles.
Be Prepared for Power Outages: Keep torches on hand. Ensure you have spare batteries. A fully charged mobile phone is essential for staying informed and reaching out for help if necessary.
Mooring Ropes: If you’re in an area where the water levels might rise significantly, ensure you slack your mooring lines to allow your boat to rise with the water. Be careful not to let your narrowboat sit on the edge of the towpath when waters recede.
Stock Up: Make sure you have everything you need. Especially if you are in an area prone to flooding.
Stay Inside: During the storm, it’s safer to remain inside your boat. Strong winds, flying debris, and lightning make it hazardous to be outside.
Monitor Water Levels: Canal water levels can rise rapidly during heavy rain. Regularly check to ensure you’re not at risk of the canal flooding, especially if moored in a flood-prone area. The canal can rise above the towpath leaving Narrowboats in very precarious positions when the flood waters recede.
Communication with fellow boaters: Keep in touch with fellow boaters. They can provide valuable advice and info about current conditions and you may need one another’s help if things turn bad.
Know Your Location: Always be aware of your exact location, so that if you need assistance, you can provide accurate information to emergency services. the What3Words App is worth downloading which can tell emergency services your location to within meters.
Post-storm Checks: Once the storm has passed, inspect your narrowboat for any damage, especially if you’ve been moored near trees. Check ropes, fenders, and the boat’s hull. Before setting off again, check the condition of the canal, especially for fallen trees or other debris. Check for stoppages due to storm damage on the CRT website.
Click Here to learn: What would happen if lightning strikes your narrowboat?
While narrowboating on the UK canals is generally safe, being prepared for storms is essential. It’s not just about protecting your boat, but ensuring your safety and that of others around you.
Respect the power of nature, stay informed, and always prioritize safety over sticking to a schedule.
Have you been on a narrowboat in a storm and lived to tell the tale?
Let us know about your stormy experiences below and any tips or info you have to help others.