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Public warned of rip currents, strong waves
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Posted on Feb 05 2019
A small craft advisory is now in effect in the CNMI until 6am Thursday due to rough coastal waters on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. A high surf advisory is now in effect until early Tuesday morning along north facing reefs.
Based on the information received from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, an east-northeast swell will continue affecting the Marianas. Moderate to fresh trade winds with strong gusts and combined seas of 8 to 11 feet were projected through last night, to slowly diminish through the night. The seas, however, were expected to continue to generate hazardous conditions for operators of small craft through Wednesday night. Conditions will then diminish below advisory levels by early Thursday morning.
Right now, hazardous surf will continue along north facing reefs and there will be a high risk of rip currents at least until the weekend. The NWS has issued a high surf advisory, which is in effect through 7 am today, and a high risk of rip currents through Sunday afternoon.
The public is being advised to avoid venturing near reefs and beaches, especially those facing north and east. Strong rip currents will be life threatening. If you become caught in a rip current, remain calm, swim parallel to shore, then back toward the beach when possible.
The public and inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, are advised to avoid sailing in these conditions. (Saipan Tribune)
