High surf advisory issued for Antigua and Barbuda

A high surf advisory has been issued for Antigua and Barbuda, with residents and visitors being urged to exercise extreme caution along exposed coastlines.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service said the advisory came into effect at 10:10 on Wednesday and will remain in place for Antigua until Thursday morning, while Barbuda is expected to be affected from Wednesday night until around midnight on Thursday.

The warning applies mainly to reefs and exposed northern-facing coastlines, where hazardous marine conditions are forecast.

Forecasters say seas are expected to range between 5 and 8 feet, with occasional swells approaching 10 feet. Surf heights of 6 to 10 feet are forecast, driven by a long-period swell of 10 to 11 seconds. Dangerous rip currents are also expected.

The meteorological service warned that the conditions could lead to beach erosion, coastal flooding, beach closures and hazardous swimming conditions, as well as disruptions to marine activity and possible damage to coastal infrastructure.

Members of the public are being advised to avoid rocky shorelines, jetties and coastal structures, and to use sheltered south- and east-facing beaches where possible. Bathing is recommended only in areas where lifeguards are present.

Swimmers who find themselves caught in a rip current are advised to remain calm, float if possible, avoid fighting the current and swim parallel to the shore when able, while signalling for assistance if needed.

Further updates are available via the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service website and through ABS Radio and Television.

The advisory was issued by forecaster Letitia Humphreys.

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]