BMS forecasts rough seas, marine users adviced to exercise caution

The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) informed sea bathers, fishermen and other marine users to take all necessary precautions at beaches as they forecasted rough seas along the west coast this weekend.

According to BMS, the forecasters issued a statement, “increase in surf activity is as a result of large northerly swells propagating into our marine area. The surf along the west coast should begin to increase from tonight, Friday 16, February 2024 until Monday 19, February 2024.”

The forecasters advised seabathers to exercise caution and urged them to use an on-duty lifeguard before dipping into the water and secure objects that can be swept away by the breaking wave activity. Those along the rocky parts of the affected coastline have also been asked to exercise extreme caution as well.

Long period swells and hazardous conditions at sea are also affecting the coastlines, and raising concerns about the safety and security of the citizens, public infrastructure and private property.

An increase in surf activity on the western coastlines of Barbados triggered a high-surf advisory sometime during the weekend. These large northerly swells propagate into the marine area.

Key takeaways

• While going into the water, one should ensure the use of on-duty lifeguards near beaches for safety and security while jumping onto the water
• It is suggested to secure objects that can be swept away by the breaking wave activity
• Authorities advised fishermen and sea bathers to follow the forecasters’ suggestions and exercise caution, particularly along the western coasts

Moreover, the people of Barbados may experience a mix of sunshine and clouds with a few brief scattered light showers. Further, as per the synopsis, the Atlantic high-pressure system will remain the dominant feature.

Due to such conditions, the nation reported a case of drowning of a young boy in Speightstown because of tragic marine conditions and the team rescued two others who were facing difficulties near the water, last week.