Strong winds, high seas expected until Valentine’s Day

Forecaster Dale Destin says a high wind advisory is in effect for Antigua and Barbuda from Saturday afternoon, 10 February 2018 to Tuesday, 13 February 2018.

“Strong winds of 16 to 24 knots with gusts to around gale force – 34 knots, are expected,” he said.

A high wind advisory means strong winds of 22 to 27 knots with higher gusts are imminent or occurring but are not strong enough to warrant a high wind warning.

“These strong winds will be mainly evident over open waters, exposed coastal areas, high elevations and open terrains on the northern and eastern sides of the islands,” according to Destin.

He says possible and likely impacts include injuries; very hazardous seas; soil erosion; localized disruptions of businesses; disruption to outdoor and sporting activities; disruption of transportation (air and especially sea); vehicular accidents and financial losses.

According to the expert, wind of this strength could make some outdoor activities uncomfortable, if not outright dangerous. High winds can create dangerous fallen or blowing objects.

“Residents should secure loose outdoor items, which can be blown away, and caution should be taken if driving” the forecaster said.

Meantime, a special marine statement for small craft operators is in effect for Antigua and Barbuda and the rest of the Leeward Islands and British Virgin Islands from tonight until Wednesday, 14 February 2018.

Hazardous seas, due to a combination of sea swells and wind waves, are expected to be a threat to the life and property of mariners. Small craft warning in effect for Antigua and Barbuda and the rest of the area.

“Waves/seas: 3 to 4 metres or 10 to 13 feet, occasional reaching 5.0 metres or 17 feet, mainly in open waters north and east of the islands. The highest seas are expected Tuesday.

Impacts (possible/likely): Loss of life; injuries; sea search and rescue disruptions; disruptions to sea transportation; scarcity of seafood; damage or loss of boats and fishing equipment; disruptions to marine recreation and businesses and economic losses.

Precautionary/preparedness actions: A small craft warning means that wind speeds of 21 to 33 knots and or seas of 7 feet or greater are expected to produce hazardous wave conditions to small crafts.

Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels should avoid navigating in these conditions. For the above-mentioned conditions, small craft operators should stay in port.”

 

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