9th October 2019 – A high surf advisory is in effect for the British Virgin Islands.
A large low-pressure system over the northern North Atlantic will cause long northerly swells of moderate
height to reach the islands. These swells will cause dangerous breaking waves (surfs) and life-threatening rip
currents. The highest seas will be seen on the northern and eastern coasts
Seas: 1.5 to 2.8 metres (5 to 9 feet), occasionally reaching near 3.5 metres (11 feet). Swell period: 10 to 13
seconds. Swells: Northerly at 1.2 to 2 metres (4 to 7 feet) and occasionally higher.
Surfs (breaking swells): Over 2 metres (over 6 feet). These conditions will be conducive for dangerous rip
currents. Please note that surfs could be as much as twice the height of swells, depending on the bathymetry
of the near shore areas.
Coastal flooding: High tides combine with onshore wind and swell actions could result in localized coastal flooding and beach erosion.
Locations (to be) affected: Reefs and mainly exposed eastern facing coastlines with relatively shallow, gently
sloping near shore areas.
Timing: Until Thursday
Impacts (possible/likely/expected): Loss of life – strong currents that can carry even the strongest swimmers
out to sea; injuries to beachgoers; beach erosion; sea water splashing onto low lying coastal roads; beach
closures; localized disruptions to marine recreation and businesses; financial losses; damage to coral reefs;
salt water intrusion and disruptions to potable water from desalination. High surfs can knock spectators off
exposed rocks and jetties. Breaking waves may occasionally impact harbours making navigating the harbour
channel dangerous.
Precautionary/preparedness actions: A high surf advisory means that dangerous surfs of 2 to 3 metres or 6
to 10 feet will affect coastlines in the advisory area, producing hazardous conditions. Beachgoers should be
extremely cautious; bathe only where lifeguards are present or the sheltered, less affected southern beaches. Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing quickly away from shore, which occur most often at low spots or breaks in the sandbar and near structures such as groins, jetties and piers.
If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don`t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following
the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.
