High surf advisory issued for western coastlines

Choppy sea conditions are already affecting the northwestern coastlines of Barbados stretching from Shermans St. Lucy to Batts Rock St. Michael. Therefore, the Barbados Meteorological Services has issued a High- Surf Advisory. These northerly swells are predicted to continue throughout the week into the weekend.

Beachgoers and persons with properties near the coast should be prepared for the possibility of overtopping of waves onto property and roads in very close proximity to the shoreline; some damage to coastal homes and roads is possible. Additionally, some beach erosion is possible if beaches are submerged and the possible loss of life or injury.

What you Should do
Marine users and interested persons are encouraged to monitor the BMS, DEM and GIS websites and their respective social media pages along with the local media networks for further information on what to do. Advice and warnings provided by the National Conservation Commission should be followed. In addition, if you intend to go into the water, it is recommended that you use beaches with on-duty lifeguards. Property owners should secure objects on the beach front that may be swept away by the wave action.

Discussion
Northerly swells of up to 2.0m asssociated with a frontal system are currently causing a deterioration in coastal conditions along northwestern coastlines. Guidance indicates that the swell heights have peaked and are predicted to continue throughout the day and into

tomorrow. The BMS will continue to monitor the situation and update the advisory tomorrow the 14th January, 2025 at noon.
General Information
A High Surf Advisory is issued when breaking wave action poses or is forecast to pose a threat to life and property within the surf zone during the next 36 hours. In this case are already occurring.

This High-Surf Advisory was issued at 3:00pm Monday 13th January 2025 and will be updated at 12 noon Tuesday 14th January 2025 or sooner if conditions warrant.

For more information specific to your area, please visit https://www.barbadosweather.org/marineBarResp.php, our social media pages or call our hotline at 976-2376 or the office at 535-0022.