6th January 2018 – A strong high-pressure system will continue to generate high winds resulting in rough seas across the area over the next few days. Seas are expected to be as high as 3.1 meters or in the range of 10 feet. Rip current conditions are expected to continue into Monday afternoon. Minor beach erosion is possible during high tide.
For this reason, the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued stern warnings for small craft operators and sea bathers against hazardous sea conditions.
As a precaution sea bathers and inexperienced surfers and swimmers should stay out of the water until these hazardous surf conditions subside. Persons on the beach should be vigilant for large breaking waves surging upon the shore which can carry people of all sizes into the ocean. You should avoid being near the shore line and stay off of rock formations.
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.
In addition to the high seas being generated by the high pressure, high winds will also transport pockets of low level moisture over and around the islands during that time, resulting in periods of passing showers over the next 3-4 days.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to exercise caution due to the hazardous sea conditions affecting the territory.
Please continue to monitor local media stations, DDM’s website at bviddm.com) and Facebook at BVIDDM for regular updates.
Disclaimer: The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is not an official Meteorological Office. The Information disseminated by the Department is gathered from a number of professional sources used or contracted by the DDM to provide such information. This information is to be used as a guide by anyone who has interest in local weather conditions. By no means can the DDM or the BVI Government be held accountable by anyone who uses this information appropriately for legal evidence or in justification of any decision which may result in the loss of finances, property or life.
