The Virgin Islands Department of Disaster Management (DDM) has issued a high surf advisory with locations to be affected including Reefs and exposed starting tonight, Saturday, September 2, 2023, until Wednesday September 6, 2023, for British Virgin Islands. Photo: DDM/File

Synopsis: Moderate long-period swells are expected to reach the area and affect mainly the northern and eastern coastlines. The threat level to the life, livelihood, property and infrastructure of those using the affected coastlines will rise to moderate. These swells could cause life-threatening surfs and rip currents on affected coastlines.

The DDM noted that a high surf advisory means that dangerous surfs of 2 to 3 metres or 6 to 10 feet will affect some coastlines in the advisory area, producing hazardous conditions.

Seas (significant wave heights): 1.5 to 2.1 metres (5 to 7 feet), occasionally or locally reaching near 2.7 metres (9 feet). Swell period: 10 to 14 seconds. Swells: North at 1.5 to 2.1 metres (5 to 7 feet) and occasionally higher.

Surfs (breaking swells): Over 2 metres (over 6 feet). These conditions are conducive for dangerous rip currents. Please note that surfs could be as much as twice the height of swells, depending on the bathymetry of the nearshore areas.

Coastal flooding possible - DDM 

DDM said high tides combined with onshore wind and swell actions could result in localized coastal flooding and beach erosion with Potential Impacts: Loss of life–strong currents that can carry even the strongest swimmers out to sea; injuries to beachgoers; beach erosion; sea water splashing onto low-lying coastal roads; beach closures; localized disruptions to marine recreation and businesses; financial losses; damage to coral reefs; saltwater intrusion and disruptions to potable water from desalination.

As such, Beachgoers, especially to the mainly affected coastlines, should be extremely cautious; bathe only where lifeguards are present or on the sheltered, less affected beaches, mainly to the south.

“If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don`t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help,” DDM warned.