PORTSMOUTH, Va. - Coast Guard personnel in North Carolina and Virginia are preparing for the possibility of a significant weather event which National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency forecasters say could develop into a tropical depression in the next few days.

The weather system is currently off the Georgia and South Carolina coast and is expected to move northeast along the coast. A National Weather Service report indicates that environmental conditions appear conducive for further development.

The storm may cause heavy rainfall, high winds and surf along the coast of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina in the next few days as the system moves slowly northeastward near the coast.

The Coast Guard urges mariners to always:

• Stay Informed - The public should be aware of weather condition and monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio and internet. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF channel 16.
• Check the current and expected weather and water conditions before heading out, and be aware that weather conditions can quickly change.
• Wear their lifejackets while on the water.
• File a float plan with friends, family members and their local marina before heading out. The list should include the number of passengers onboard the vessel, their destination and expected time of return.
• Always have a working radio onboard their vessel as cell phone coverage varies from region to region.
• Carry marine flares onboard their vessel to signal rescuers in distress and emergency situations.
• Keep a Global Positioning System or Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) so that they may be easier to locate in the event of distress.
• Secure your belongings - Owners of recreational boats are urged to take appropriate precautions to prevent damage to their and others' vessels.

"All mariners are encouraged to be mindful of the weather and to exercise extreme caution while on the water," said Lt. Robert Carroll, a watchstander at Rescue Coordination Center Portsmouth.

For further information contact Petty Officer Mark Jones, (757) 434-7705 

To visit NOAA's website for information on this system, click the above graphic.

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