6TH March 2018 – A strong Atlantic low-pressure system will continue to generate high sea swells and very rough seas along the coastal areas today and tonight. For that reason, all warnings will remain in place until further evaluation of marine conditions.
In addition, low moisture levels will also restrict shower activity over and around the islands.
IMPACTS (possible/likely)
Waves and surf seas between 12 to 18 feet with breaking waves of 18 to 25 feet and higher at times are possible.
Loss of life – strong currents that can carry even the strongest swimmers out to sea; injuries to beachgoers; beach erosion; sea water splashing onto low lying coastal roads; beach closures; localized disruptions to marine recreation and businesses; financial losses; damage to coral reefs and disruptions to potable water from desalination. High surfs can knock spectators off exposed rocks and jetties. Breaking waves may occasionally impact harbours making navigating the Harbour channel dangerous.
Precautionary/preparedness actions:
A high surf warning means that high surf will affect beaches in the warning area, producing beach erosion and especially dangerous swimming conditions. Beachgoers should avoid the waters, mainly on the northern sides of the islands.
A Coastal Flood Warning means that flooding is occurring or imminent. Coastal residents in the warned area should be alert for rising water…and take appropriate action to protect life
and property.
A small craft advisory means that wind speeds of 21 to 33 knots and/or seas of 7 feet or greater are expected to produce hazardous conditions to small crafts. Inexperienced mariners especially those operating smaller vessels should avoid navigating in these conditions.
Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing quickly away from shore, which occur most often at low spots or breaks in the sandbar and near structures such as groins such as jetties and piers. No one should enter the surf due to strong currents.
Persons should try to avoid impassable roads due to salt water intrusion. Beach erosion and structural damage is possible due to waves breaking further inland.
Please continue to monitor local media stations, DDM’s website at bviddm.com) and Facebook at BVIDDM for regular updates.
Disclaimer: The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is not an official Meteorological Office. The Information disseminated by the Department is gathered from a number of professional sources used or contracted by the DDM to provide such information. This information is to be used as a guide by anyone who has interest in local weather conditions. By no means can the DDM or the BVI Government be held accountable by anyone who uses this information appropriately for legal evidence or in justification of any decision which may result in the loss of finances, property or life.
