Strong winds have been generating choppy seas mainly along the northern, eastern and southern coastlines of Barbados. These conditions will persist throughout the remainder of the week. Therefore, the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has issued Small Craft and High Surf Warning.
Take note of the following possible impacts:
-Large open water swells creating hazardous conditions for some vessels
-Possible loss of life or injury
– Overtopping of waves onto property and roads in very close proximity to the shoreline
-Beach erosion, particularly below the cliffs and specifically at times of high tide along eastern coasts.
A strong Atlantic high-pressure system is producing winds of 20 – 25 knots across our region. Additionally, BMS’ AutoNAUT has been reporting moderate to rough seas with swells ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 meters along the north, east and south coasts. These conditions will persist through the remainder of the week with a peak in swells near 3.5m expected today, through Friday, April 4, 2025, with a gradual
reduction on Saturday, April 5, 2025. Therefore, the Small Craft and High Surf Warning will be downgraded to a small craft and high surf advisory.
Marine users 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. Follow the direction of NCC or any relevant authorities.
A small-craft warning is issued when sustained winds of 25 to 33 knots and sea swells greater than 3 metres (greater than 10 feet) are affecting the marine area within the next 36 hours. A high-surf warning is issued when breaking wave action results or is forecast to result in an especially heightened threat to life and property within the surf zone during the next 36 hours.
This SSmall Craft and High Surf Warning was issued at noon today and will be updated at 6 p.m. Friday, April 4, 2025 or sooner if conditions warrant.