Question 834 Deck General

The correct answer is C) Halt loading operations and close hatch No. 2 until the weather is clear and the storm has passed. This is the correct answer because loading Class 1 explosives during an approaching electrical storm poses a significant safety risk. Regulations prohibit the handling of hazardous materials like explosives during adverse weather conditions, as a lightning strike could ignite the cargo and cause a catastrophic explosion. The prudent action is to immediately suspend loading operations, secure the hatch, and wait for the storm to pass before resuming cargo handling. The other options are incorrect because rigging a bonding cable (A) does not eliminate the risk of lightning strike, calling for assist tugs (B) does not address the immediate hazard, and continuing to load during the storm (D) would be extremely dangerous and in violation of safety protocols.