Alert to Mariners for Rudee Inlet

An Alert to Mariners has been posted for Rudee Inlet due to serious shoaling conditions, based on a City of Virginia Beach survey, dated November 18, 2021.

The survey indicates shoaling across the channel from the east end of the jetties extending approximately 250 feet eastward. Conditions reported are least depth at 5.3 feet MLLW (mean lower low water).

Shoaling has been identified along the south side of the channel extending approximately 175 feet westward from the east end of the short jetty. Conditions reported are least depths at 6.3 feet MLLW.

Mariners are urged to exhibit extreme caution when approaching this area. Use idle speed when approaching the inlet and seek local assistance if unfamiliar with the inlet and its condition.

Most recent issuance of the USCG Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) can be found at the link provided below. Notices are updated weekly.

Week 46/21 LNM Publication:

https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/pdf/lnms/lnm05462021.pdf

Or

Fifth District LNMs for 2021:

https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=lnmDistrict®ion=5

Due to shoaling conditions at the Rudee Inlet channel, the City of Virginia Beach has requested support from the Army Corps to address the issue. USACE anticipates sending the Merritt, a side-cast dredge, sometime in early December to assist in excavating the channel.

News Releases: VBgov.com/PW/News

City of Virginia Beach | Public Works Department | Virginia Beach, VA 23456