High surf advisory in effect for BVI
|
| Published on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 |
Email To Friend Print Version |
TORTOLA, BVI -- Large long period north-northeast swells will continue to affect the northern exposed coastlines of the British Virgin Islands through to Wednesday morning. These swells will peak late Monday or early Tuesday and subside on Wednesday. The long period north-northeast swells have the potential to produce large breaking waves of 10 to 15 feet or larger along the northern exposed reefs, beaches and shoals of the islands.
These breaking waves will generate strong and dangerous currents within the surf zone called rip currents. These narrow outward flowing currents can carry people and animals away from the coast line and out to sea. If you become caught in a rip current do not panic. Calmly remain afloat, gather your bearings relative to the beach and swim parallel to the beach. You will eventually leave the grip of this narrow current and be able to safely swim to shore.
Local beach goers and inexperienced surfers and swimmers should stay out of the water until hazardous surf conditions subside. Persons on the beach should be vigilant for large breaking waves surging upon the shore which can carry people of all sizes into the ocean. Avoid being near the shoreline and stay away from rock formations.
The Department of Disaster Management is encouraging swimmers, beachgoers and persons living along the coast to exercise the necessary precautions to protect life and property from the conditions affecting the northern coasts. | | | | Reads : 331 | | | |
|
|
