SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-am-radio-static

On a boat, heavy static on an AM radio can be a sign of what?

Nearby thunderstorm activity.

  1. Nearby thunderstorm activity ✔
  2. A weak radio battery
  3. A strong ocean current

Why: Lightning gives off radio noise that AM radios pick up as crackling static. The Coast Guard lists heavy AM static as a warning sign of nearby thunderstorms, so head for shelter early.

Huh, didn't know that: The Coast Guard says weather can change rapidly, so keep a 'weather eye' out the whole trip.

The dad joke
I'd tell you a joke about static, but it might not get good reception.
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Sources

  1. USCG, A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (2023) https://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf

Test yourself in the game

Boating & WaterThe NWS Special Marine Warning covers hazardous weather that usually lasts how long?Boating & WaterYou hear thunder while fishing from a small open boat. What should you do?Boating & WaterWhich situation is a good reason to cancel a boat trip before leaving the dock?

That's stuff everyone should know.