The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a high surf advisory as long-period swells continue to affect northern coastlines across the region.
The alert, issued at 5:30pm on Wednesday, warns of dangerous marine conditions expected to persist until Sunday morning for Antigua and Barbuda.
The advisory also applies to Barbuda, Montserrat, St Kitts, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands, with varying end times through the weekend.
According to forecasters, moderate long-period swells are pushing into the Leeward Islands and generating hazardous surf along north and north-facing shorelines, particularly where shallow and gently sloping nearshore areas amplify wave height.
Significant wave heights are expected to reach 1.5 to 2.7 metres (5–9ft) and could peak near 3.4 metres (11ft) in some locations. Breaking waves may exceed 1.6 metres (6ft), creating conditions ripe for strong and potentially life-threatening rip currents.
Officials say the threat level is moderate, with the potential for “significant impacts” along affected coastlines. Localised coastal flooding, beach erosion, and sea spray onto low-lying roads are possible, particularly during periods of high tide.
The Met Service has warned that the conditions may also affect marine businesses, recreational activities and desalination operations, while damage to coral reefs cannot be ruled out.
Beachgoers are being urged to exercise extreme caution and to swim only at beaches with lifeguards or in sheltered southern areas less exposed to the incoming swell. Individuals are also advised to avoid rocky coastlines, where powerful waves can knock spectators off jetties and ledges.
The Met Service has reminded the public of rip current safety advice: float rather than fight the current, swim parallel to the shoreline if possible, and signal for help if unable to escape.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates through the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service’s official platforms and local broadcasters as the hazardous conditions continue into the weekend.
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