Small Craft Advisory Issued for Antigua and Barbuda and Other Islands

A small craft advisory has been issued for Antigua, Barbuda, Montserrat, St. Kitts, Nevis, and Anguilla due to hazardous marine conditions.

The advisory is in effect for the eastern and northern open waters of these islands, extending up to 20 nautical miles.

For Antigua, Barbuda, Montserrat, St. Kitts, and Nevis, the advisory lasts from tonight until midday tomorrow. In Anguilla, it will be in place from Friday morning until Friday evening.

According to the Met Office, the advisory is prompted by fresh to strong winds associated with an area of low pressure (AL94), creating hazardous sea conditions with wind speeds ranging from 12 to 22 knots (23 to 40 km/h) and gusts up to 30 knots (56 km/h).

Significant wave heights will range from 4 to 7 feet (1.2 to 2.1 meters), with occasional peaks near 9 feet (2.7 meters). The dominant wind-wave period is 6 to 9 seconds.

Potential impacts include loss of life, injuries to mariners, damage to vessels and equipment, financial losses, and disruptions to fisheries and marine transportation.

The Met Office is warning Inexperienced mariners, especially those on smaller vessels, to avoid navigating in these conditions.