The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services is cautioning Inexperienced Mariners and Fisher Folks on Montserrat, especially those operating Smaller Vessels on the Atlantic Sides of the Island to avoid navigating in these conditions.

According to the High Surf Advisory, fresh to strong winds are causing a combination of wind waves and wind swells to reach hazardous levels, especially in open waters on the Atlantic sides of the islands.

It states that the threat level to the life, livelihood, property and infrastructure of mariners is high, with the potential for extensive impacts.

A small craft advisory means that wind speeds of 21 to 33 knots and or wind waves and or wind swells of 7 feet or greater are occurring or imminent. A warning may be required for some areas on Sunday when the worst conditions are expected.Winds over open waters: East-northeast at 26 to 41 km/h (14 to 22 knots; 16 to 25 mph), with strong gusts to around 63 km/h (34 knots; 39 mph) or gusts to gale-force.Seas (significant wave heights): 1.8 to 2.7 metres (6 to 9 feet), occasionally or locally reaching near 3.5 metres (12 feet). Wind waves and or wind swells: 1.5 to 2.4 metres or 5 to 8 feet and occasionally higher. The dominant wind wave period is 6 to 9 seconds.

Potential Impacts: Loss of life at sea; injuries to mariners; capsize or damage or loss of vessels and marine equipment; financial losses; disruption of fisheries and scarcity of fish products and disruption to marine transportation.

Forecaster: Dale Destin

Disclaimer: The Disaster Management Coordination Agency (DMCA) is not an official Meteorological Office. The Information disseminated by the Department is provided by the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services, the agency responsible for aviation weather products and services for Montserrat.