MET Office upgrades small craft advisory to a small craft warning

The small craft advisory has been upgraded to a small craft warning and a high surf advisory is now in effect for Barbados.

A small-craft warning in this case, is issued when sea swells greater than 3 metres (greater than 10 feet) are affecting or forecast to affect the marine area within the next 36 hours.

A high-surf warning is issued when breaking wave action results or is forecast to result in an especially heightened threat to life and property within the surf zone during the next 36 hours.

A low-pressure system in the northern Atlantic is currently generating above-normal sea swells. This in conjunction with sustained 20 to 25 knots (25 to 45 km/h) surface winds produced by the Atlantic high-pressure system will maintain rough swells in open water near Barbados, ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 meters (8 to 11 ft) this week. The BMS therefore continues to urge small craft operators to exercise extreme caution.

Key Message:
All marine craft operators and beachgoers should note the following possibilities along the coast and near shore due to the imminent marine threat.
Large open water swells can be hazardous to some vessels.
Operation of smaller vessels can be difficult at times due to large swells.
Some beach erosion is inevitable with most or all beaches submerged particularly below the cliffs and specifically at times of high tide.
Residents and visitors are encouraged not to go in the water as possible loss of life or injury can occur.

This alert message is valid from Sunday, December 25, 2022 and will be updated on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 or sooner if conditions warrant.

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