Climatologist Dale Destin is advising residents and marine operators to remain cautious as a significant swell event continues to impact Antigua and Barbuda and much of the northern Caribbean this week.

Marine conditions have shifted from moderate to hazardous, with swells now reaching 6–10 feet, particularly along north- and north-facing coastlines. Destin says powerful swell energy will persist through the weekend, producing dangerous surf and rip current threats even when local winds appear calm.

While offshore navigation remains largely manageable, nearshore conditions are of serious concern, with the following hazards expected to continue:
-Strong and dangerous rip currents
-Large and powerful breaking waves
-High surf along exposed beaches
-Difficult conditions for small craft near shallow waters, reefs, and harbour entrances

This event is unfolding during the region’s swell season, a period when waves generated by distant weather systems arrive with little warning and without local storm signals — sometimes appearing deceptively calm offshore while posing significant coastal risks.

The impacts are being felt throughout the Caribbean, especially on islands facing the open Atlantic where swell energy is most concentrated.

Authorities are urging:
-Beachgoers to avoid high-risk surf zones
-Small craft operators and fishers to exercise extreme caution near the shoreline
-Mariners to stay alert to updated forecasts and official bulletins

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service is monitoring the ongoing event and expected to issue advisories or warnings as needed.

Destin continues to share guidance and updates through his weather platforms and encourages the public to stay informed as hazardous surf conditions persist