U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are bracing for a prolonged period of hazardous marine conditions and potentially deadly rip currents, as announced by the National Weather Service on Sunday evening.
The advisory, which extends through the upcoming workweek, has been prompted by the arrival of northerly swells affecting the Atlantic waters and local passages.
Boaters are set to face challenging conditions at sea with waves reaching 5-7 feet, occasionally surging up to 9 feet, accompanied by escalating winds at 15-20 knots and gusts that could peak at 30 knots. Small Craft Advisories are currently in place for the Atlantic waters including the Anegada and Mona Passages. Forecasts suggest that the seas will further intensify, possibly building to 6-8 feet by midweek.
Beachgoers are also warned of the increased risk posed by life-threatening rip currents, owing to breaking waves of 6-9 feet and even higher breakers at times. All north-facing beaches of Puerto Rico, Culebra, and the northern U.S. Virgin Islands are under a High Rip Current Risk. Authorities indicate that a High Surf Advisory may be issued for specific areas if the conditions warrant further precautionary measures.
The public is urged to heed these warnings and exercise extreme caution when venturing near the water. Boaters should consider postponing outings until conditions improve, and swimmers are advised to avoid entering the water at beaches where rip currents are a risk. The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
