Broads Winter Weather
Boating on the Broads in winter is a magical experience. But at this time of year it brings its own hazards and requires special alertness and precautions. You are also advised not to walk on any ice - it is dangerous.
The Broads Authority’s Winter Boating leaflet as part of its Waterways Code gives safety advice and guidance including emergency contact numbers.
Ice watch info - 20 December 2010, 14:00
River Bure - All above Wroxham Bridge frozen up.
River Ant - Frozen at Ludham Bridge, upper reaches also presumed frozen.
River Thurne - Ice on upper reaches of main river and dykes and marinas. Horsey Mere, Hickling Broad and Womack Water are all iced over.
River Yare - Upper reaches frozen over.
River Waveney - Main river clear but smaller dykes and marinas may have ice. Oulton Broad and Dyke are iced over.
For regular updates, please see the Urgent Boating News pages.
Key tips are:
• Check the weather before you go out and adapt your plans if things change.
• Take care not to slip on icy decks and mooring platforms and avoid navigating through icy water.
• When banks are flooded keep to the centre of the river.
• Things to take: a life-jacket, warm clothes, a change of clothes, strong waterproofs, footwear with a good tread, a hot drink, food, a mobile phone, a torch and spare batteries, a VHF radio if you have one.
• Don’t go out alone. Let people know where you are going and when you leave and plan to return.
• Take particular care if you are out in an open boat.
The leaflet can also be obtained free from the Broads Authority’s office at Dragonfly House, 2 Gilders Way, Norwich, NR3 1UB; tel 01603 610734 and local fishing tackle shops.
20/12/10
