safety steps

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

Dangerous long-period swells are impacting the region, creating life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, especially along northern and northwestern coastlines.

Most affected areas:

• Reefs and exposed north & northwest-facing coastlines

• Shallow nearshore areas

Timing:

• Antigua: This afternoon until Tuesday midnight

• Barbuda, Anguilla & BVI: Until Wednesday midday

Marine conditions:

• Seas: 2.4–3.7 m (8–12 ft), occasionally near 4.3 m (14 ft)

• Swell period: 11–14 seconds

• Breaking waves: Over 3.1 m (10+ ft)

Surfs can be up to twice the swell height in some areas.

Major hazards:

• Life-threatening rip currents

• Coastal flooding & beach erosion

• Dangerous harbour navigation

• Damage to reefs & coastal infrastructure

• Sea water on low-lying roads

Safety advice:

• Do NOT enter the water in affected areas

• Avoid rocky shores, jetties & coastal structures

• Use only sheltered south & east beaches, with extreme caution

• Swim only where lifeguards are present

If caught in a rip current:

• Relax & float

• Don’t fight the current

• Swim parallel to shore if able

• Wave or call for help if needed

• Stay informed via antiguamet.com, and follow @abmetservice on Twitter, Facebook & YouTube, plus ABS Radio & TV.

Forecaster: Letitia Humphreys