safety steps

𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡 𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧𝗦𝗔𝗣𝗣 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗟! 𝗖𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗞: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaN7nmQGOj9na4QhBa12

Hazardous marine conditions are affecting the region due to moderate long-period swells, mainly along northern and northwestern-facing coastlines.

Areas at risk:

• Reefs and exposed north & northwest coasts

• Shallow nearshore areas

Timing:

• Antigua: Until Thursday night

• St. Kitts & Nevis: From this morning until Thursday night

• Montserrat: From this afternoon until Thursday evening

Marine conditions:

• Seas: 1.5–2.4 m (5–8 ft), occasionally near 3.1 m (10 ft)

• Swell period: 10–13 seconds

• Swells: North to NNW

• Breaking waves: Over 1.8 m (6+ ft)

Surfs may be up to twice the swell height in some locations.

Main hazards:

• Dangerous rip currents

• Risk of drowning & injuries

• Beach erosion & localized coastal flooding

• Sea water on low-lying coastal roads

• Disruptions to marine activities & businesses

Safety guidance:

• Be extremely cautious along affected coastlines

• Swim only where lifeguards are present

• Prefer sheltered south & east beaches

• Avoid rocky shores, jetties & coastal structures

If caught in a rip current:

• Relax and float

• Don’t swim against the current

• Swim parallel to shore if possible

• Signal for help if needed

Continue to monitor updates from the Meteorological Office via antiguamet.com and follow @abmetservice on Twitter, Facebook & YouTube. Also tune in to ABS Radio & TV.

Forecaster: Letitia Humphreys