Small Craft, High Surf Advisory in effect

Members of the public should be on the lookout for above normal sea swell heights this week.

This as the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has issued a Small Craft and a High Surf Advisory for the island.

A Small Craft Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 20 to 25 knots (35 to 45km/h) and/or sea swells of 2.5 to 3.0 metres (8 to 10 feet) are affecting or forecast to affect the marine area within the next 48 hours.

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.

The BMS says sea swells are expected to decrease slightly from tonight, peaking around 2.5 metres. However, small craft operators and sea bathers should continue to exercise caution.

In addition, northerly swells being generated by a low pressure system in the Atlantic are forecast to affect the marine waters by the night of Thursday, February 9, 2023. Seas are expected to be moderate to rough in open water with swells ranging from 2.5 to 3.0 metres ( 8 to 10 ft ).

Winds are expected to increase to 20 – 25 knots (35 to 45km/h) which will maintain a deterioration in sea swells into the weekend.

The BMS is asking all marine craft operators and beachgoers to note the following possibilities along the coast and near shore, particularly along western coast lines due to the imminent marine threat:

• Large open water swells which 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

This alert will be updated at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 11, 2023 or sooner if conditions warrant.

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