How to be Weather-Wise on Lake Texoma

By Highport Marina
July 24, 2014
 
Checking the weather before you get out on the lake is always a good idea,

Photo courtesy of Highport Marina, Lake Texoma

but you know Texas weather. You could wake up to 100 degree heat with a bright sunny morning and go to bed in the 60s with storm clouds overhead. Keep these tips in mind to stay safe and be weather-wise while enjoying the lake:

• Keep a marine radio on your boat to check the weather regularly while on the lake. Remember, cell-phone batteries die. Marine radios don't.
• Keep an eye on the clouds. The thicker/darker the clouds, the more likely a storm will develop.
• Make sure you have enough life vests for all your passengers. Remember, children under 13 must wear a coast-guard approved life vest or personal flotation device at all times while on the lake.

If you are caught in foul weather:

• Reduce speed. Proceed with caution. Put on a life vest.
• Head for nearest shore that is safe to approach.
• Head bow into waves at about a 40 degree angle.
• Secure loose items. Have emergency gear ready.
• Keep bilges free of water.
• Seat passengers on bottom of boat near center line.
• If your engine fails anchor the boat.

Keep these tips in mind and stay safe on the lake!

The 11th largest inland lake in the country, Lake Texoma is known as the "Playground of the Southwest!"  For more information about Lake Texoma, boating regulations, fishing reports and tourism information, visit TexomaConnect.com.