Previous Story
Warning out vs rip currents and rough seas
|
Posted on Dec 18 2019
The public is being warned that there is a high risk of rip currents through Sunday. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.
Meanwhile, a small craft advisory remains in effect through Sunday. This means that wind speeds of 15 to 25 knots with gusts up to 30 knots are expected to produce wave conditions hazardous to small craft.
The risk of rip currents is present along east facing reefs in Guam and the CNMI and could extend to north facing reefs.
Based on the information received from the National Weather Service in Guam and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, the public is advised to stay away from the reef line. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t swim against the current. Swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.
Avoid venturing out along east facing reefs and beaches. Huge pounding waves can knock you down and cause serious injuries. Strong rip currents will be life threatening.
Meanwhile, a trade-wind surge is producing fresh to strong winds and rough seas in coastal waters.
East to northeast winds of 20 to 25 knots and combined seas of 8 to 10 feet will produce hazardous conditions for operators of small craft. Highest winds and seas will be east of the islands.
Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid sailing in these conditions.
