Small Craft, High Surf advisories in effect

The Barbados Meteorological Services has issued small craft and high surf advisories for Barbados. 

They are in effect from 6 a.m. today, Sunday, July 2, 2023, and will be terminated at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, or sooner if conditions warrant.

A Small Craft Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 20 to 25 knots and/or sea swells of 2.5 to 3.0 metres (8 to 10 feet) and/or reduced visibility (less than 10 km but greater than 5 km) are affecting or forecast to affect the marine area within the next 48 hours. Meanwhile, a High Surf Advisory is issued when breaking wave action poses or is forecast to pose a threat to life and property within the surf zone during the next 48 hours.

A tropical wave will be affecting Barbados and its marine area from Monday, July 3, 2023, into Tuesday, July 4, 2023. Accompanying the tropical wave will be an increase in windspeeds between 20 to 25 knots (23 to 29 mph) with occasional gusts near showers which will result in a deterioration of sea conditions. These brisk wind speeds will generate easterly swells ranging from 2.5m to 3.0m (8 to 10ft).

These are the key messages to all marine craft operators and beachgoers of the following possibilities:

-Large open swells can be hazardous to some vessels.

-Operation of smaller vessels can be difficult at times due to large swells.

-Possible beach erosion if beaches are submerged particularly below cliffs and specifically at times of high tide.

-Possible loss of life or injury.

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