NEW ORLEANS— The Eighth Coast Guard District would like to remind all recreational boaters and mariners to prepare for the colder weather forecasted this weekend along the Gulf Coast.

According to the National Weather Service, an arctic air mass will provide hard freeze conditions Thursday through Saturday, with a possible gale warning being issued Thursday through Sunday. Wind chill temperatures will vary between 10 and 20 degrees through Sunday morning.

"With air and water temperatures dropping, hypothermia is much more of a danger, especially around the water," said Lt. Ronald Kooper, watch supervisor at the Eighth District Command Center. "And as always, we strongly encourage that along with a proper fitting life jacket and filing a float plan with a friend or family member, that boaters take all the necessary precautions to remain safe."