While the COASTAL DRILLER is in transit at a draft of 10 feet 6 inches, a severe storm is predicted within 12 hours. VM are 546,462 ft-kips, FSML are 18,000 ft-kips, and FSMT are 32,000 ft-kips. How much should the KG corrected for free surface effects be lowered to satisfy the maximum allowable KG criteria?

Correct Answer: Option B — 2.34 feet

Severe storm criteria adjustments necessitate calculating the precise difference between the current free-surface corrected KG and the reduced maximum allowable KG limit mandated for high-wind ocean transits. This deficit requires lowering the vessel's vertical center of gravity by 2.34 feet to ensure positive stability.