What should you do if you see a storm approaching while boating?

Seeking immediate shelter and heading to shore if possible is the best course of action when you see a storm approaching while boating. Storms can quickly escalate, bringing dangerous conditions such as high winds, heavy rain, and lightning. By heading towards shore, you increase your chances of finding a safe harbor or dock where you can secure your vessel and protect yourself and your passengers from the storm's impacts.

Continuing to boat as planned can put you and your crew at significant risk, as you may find yourself in a bad situation if the weather worsens. Increasing speed to escape the storm may seem logical, but it's often ineffective; storms can develop rapidly, and attempting to outrun them can lead to hazardous conditions like waves and winds that are too strong to navigate safely. Anchoring your boat and waiting it out may also be a dangerous choice, as anchored boats can be tossed by waves or affected by strong winds, potentially capsizing or dragging anchor.

Heading to shore provides the most effective means of ensuring the safety of those on board by getting out of harm's way as quickly as possible.