A high surf advisory has been issued for Antigua, Barbuda, Montserrat, St. Kitts, Nevis, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands as powerful long-period swells continue to push into the region, creating hazardous marine conditions.

The advisory affects northern and north-facing coastlines, especially areas with shallow and gently to moderately sloping nearshore waters — environments where breaking waves can become particularly dangerous.

Timing varies by island:
•⁠ ⁠British Virgin Islands: This evening to Thursday morning
•⁠ ⁠Barbuda & Anguilla: Tonight to Thursday morning
•⁠ ⁠Antigua, St. Kitts & Nevis: Midnight to Thursday morning
•⁠ ⁠Montserrat: Pre-dawn to Thursday morning

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service says swells could generate surfs between 6 and 10 feet, with some locations experiencing even higher waves. Offshore seas are forecast at 5 to 8 feet, occasionally reaching up to 12 feet.

Officials warn that these conditions pose a moderate but significant threat to life, coastal infrastructure, and marine activities. Strong rip currents — capable of pulling even skilled swimmers out to sea — are expected.

Possible impacts include:
•⁠ ⁠Life-threatening rip currents
•⁠ ⁠Beach erosion and localized flooding
•⁠ ⁠Seawater washing onto low-lying coastal roads
•⁠ ⁠Damage to reefs and marine ecosystems
•⁠ ⁠Disruptions to recreation and seaside businesses

Residents and visitors are urged to avoid high-risk areas and choose sheltered southern beaches if entering the water. Those walking or sightseeing along rocky coastlines should also exercise extreme caution, as large waves can strike suddenly and knock individuals into the sea.

Authorities remind the public that if caught in a rip current, swimmers should remain calm, float, and swim parallel to the shore until free of the pull — then signal for help if necessary.

The advisory remains in effect through Thursday morning, with updates expected as conditions evolve.