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Public warned of rough seas until Saturday
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Posted on Dec 17 2019
Fresh to strong trade winds will continue to produce hazardous conditions for small craft for the next several days. The stronger winds will result in seas of 8 to 11 feet.
A small craft advisory is in effect on coastal waters on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota until 6am Saturday. The public is also being warned that there is a high rip current risk now in effect through 6am Saturday
Based on the information received from the National Weather Service in Guam and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, east-northeast winds of 15 to 25 knots with frequent gusts to 30 knots and combined seas of 8 to 11 feet is producing fresh to strong winds and rough seas.
Winds and waves could push mariners off course or wreck or capsize their vessels. The highest winds and seas will be east of the islands.
A small craft advisory 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. Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid sailing in these conditions
Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water. The high risk of rip currents could extend to north facing reefs. On Obyan Beach on Saipan, the high risk could extend to south facing reefs.
Swim near a lifeguard if possible and never swim alone. 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. The public is advised to avoid venturing out along east and south facing reefs and beaches. Strong rip currents will be life threatening. (Saipan Tribune)
