Marine Warnings Issued for St. Thomas and St. John Amid Dangerous Swell Activity

High surf and rip currents impact beaches while small craft advisories caution boaters; residents and visitors urged to avoid coastal waters until conditions improve

  • Staff Consortium
  • November 16, 2024
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Residents and visitors in St. Thomas and St. John are being advised to exercise caution as hazardous marine and coastal conditions, brought about by a northerly swell, are expected to persist through at least Monday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Juan issued a marine hazard advisory highlighting the affected areas, including north-facing beaches of St. Thomas, St. John, northern Puerto Rico, and Culebra. While conditions are expected to gradually improve starting Tuesday, the NWS stresses vigilance until the swell subsides.

The following warnings are in effect for St. Thomas, St. John, and neighboring regions:

  • High Surf Advisory and Rip Current Statement: These conditions are impacting north-facing beaches, including those in St. Thomas, St. John, northern Puerto Rico, and Culebra. Swimmers are urged to avoid entering the water due to the life-threatening risk posed by rip currents and large breaking waves.

  • Small Craft Advisory: Issued for the Atlantic waters and passages, small vessels are advised to exercise extreme caution through noon on Monday. These hazardous conditions may include rough seas and strong winds, making navigation dangerous for small crafts.

  • Timing and Duration: The strongest marine hazards are expected to persist until early Monday morning for some areas, with gradual improvement anticipated Tuesday.

The hazardous conditions, driven by a northerly swell, also extend to the northwestern local passages and waters near Puerto Rico. The advisory cautions that strong rip currents, rough surf, and deteriorating navigation conditions could disrupt activities in coastal and marine zones. NWS meteorologists have emphasized the need for heightened awareness in these regions, particularly for swimmers and boat operators.

The National Weather Service strongly advises:

  • Swimmers: Avoid entering the water on affected beaches, as rip currents and strong waves pose significant risks to life.
  • Boaters: Exercise caution when navigating Atlantic waters and passages, especially if operating smaller vessels.
  • General Public: Stay updated on changing conditions and avoid areas experiencing high surf.

While hazardous conditions will dominate through Monday, a gradual improvement is expected beginning Tuesday as the effects of the northerly swell diminish. Local authorities and the NWS continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to ensure public safety.

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