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Public warned of dangerous sea conditions
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Posted on Feb 02 2021
Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions.
A high surf advisory is now in effect until 6pm today, Tuesday. Also, there is a high risk for rip currents that is now in effect through next Monday night. A small craft advisory in effect until 6pm tomorrow, Wednesday.
Based on the information received from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, large breaking waves of up to 10 feet are expected in the surf zone for north facing reefs, while dangerous rip currents will be along north and east facing reefs of all Mariana Islands.
These conditions will create dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.
Residents of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota are advised to avoid venturing out near reef lines facing north and east facing reefs. Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.
Meanwhile, east winds 15 to 25 knots and seas of 9 to 12 feet are expected along Saipan, Tinian, and Rota coastal waters until at least 6pm Wednesday. This means conditions will be hazardous to small craft.
Highest seas will be on Tinian and Saipan waters through today, Tuesday, then will spread southward.
Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid navigating in hazardous conditions. (PR)
