NWS warns of strong winds, high surf this week

Strong trade winds are expected the next few days. These will cause hazardous marine conditions this week.

Based on information received from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center-State Warning Point, a fresh to strong trade-wind surge will cause windy conditions across the Marianas in the next few days, especially during the daytime hours.

A wind advisory is now in effect for Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan, while a small craft advisory is in effect until 6am Tuesday.

A high surf advisory is also in effect until 6pm Friday. Hazardous seas watch remains in effect from Tuesday morning through late Thursday night.

A gale watch is in effect from Tuesday morning through late Thursday night.

East winds are projected at 25 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 mph. Strong winds can affect outdoor activity.

A wind advisory means that winds of 35 mph are expected. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution and plan outdoor activity accordingly.

Winds associated with strong high pressure over the northwest Pacific will generate swell and seas that will continue to produce hazardous surf along north and east facing reefs this week.

Along north facing reefs, hazardous surf of 8 to 10 feet will build to between 9 and 11 feet today, Monday. The surf could possibly increase to between 12 and 14 feet on Tuesday.

Along east facing reefs, hazardous surf of 10 to 12 feet will build to between 10 and 14 feet today. The surf could possibly build to between 16 and 20 feet on Tuesday, which would require a high surf warning.

A high risk of rip currents on north and east facing reefs will persist through this week.

If you become caught in a rip current, remain calm. Do not exhaust yourself and stay afloat while waiting for help. If you have to swim out of a rip current, swim parallel to shore and back toward the beach when possible. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current as you will tire quickly.

The public is being advised to avoid venturing out along north and east facing reefs and beaches. Large breaking waves can knock you down and cause serious injuries. Strong rip currents will be life threatening.

Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid sailing or boating in these conditions.

A hazardous seas watch is issued when the risk of hazardous seas of 15 feet or more has

Significantly increased but the specific timing and/or location is still uncertain. It is intended to provide additional lead time for mariners who may wish to consider altering their plans. (Saipan Tribune)