​The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services has issued a small craft advisory for multiple Caribbean territories due to hazardous marine conditions expected to persist through the weekend.

The advisory, issued on Friday, affects Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, and St. Kitts and Nevis.

The warning primarily concerns open waters on the eastern and northern sides of the islands up to 20 nautical miles offshore.

According to meteorologists, fresh to strong winds are creating dangerous sea conditions, with wind speeds reaching 23 to 37 kilometers per hour and gusts up to 57 kilometers per hour. Wave heights are expected to range between 1.8 to 3.1 meters, with some areas experiencing waves up to 3.7 meters.

The duration of the advisory varies by location. Montserrat’s advisory extends until Saturday night, while Antigua and Barbuda’s warning remains in effect until Sunday night.

Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands are under advisory until Sunday evening, with St. Kitts and Nevis facing conditions from Saturday morning until midday.

Weather officials warn of potential impacts including risk to life at sea, vessel damage, and disruption to fishing operations and marine transportation.

The Meteorological Service strongly advises inexperienced mariners, particularly those operating smaller vessels, to avoid navigation during these conditions.

Officials have rated the threat level as moderate with potential for significant impacts to maritime activities.

Mariners are urged to continue monitoring updates as conditions develop.