The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services has issued an urgent Small Craft Advisory warning of hazardous marine conditions beginning Saturday and lasting into midweek next week.

The advisory will affect Antigua and Barbuda as well as neighbouring islands, including Montserrat, St. Kitts, Nevis, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands, with the most dangerous conditions expected in open Atlantic waters up to 20 nautical miles offshore.

Forecasters say fresh to strong winds will generate rough seas and dangerous swells, particularly along Atlantic coastlines. Conditions are expected to deteriorate from Saturday, with the advisory remaining in effect for Antigua and Barbuda through Wednesday. Other islands may see shorter durations, though extensions are possible.

Wind speeds over open waters are forecast between 26 and 37 km/h (14 to 20 knots), with gusts reaching up to 57 km/h (31 knots). Sea conditions are expected to be rough, with wave heights ranging from 1.8 to 2.7 metres (6 to 9 feet), occasionally peaking near 3.4 metres (11 feet).

The Meteorological Office warns that these conditions pose a moderate threat to life, property, and livelihoods at sea.

Risks include vessel capsizing, injuries to mariners, damage or loss of boats and equipment, and disruptions to fishing and marine transportation.

A Small Craft Advisory indicates that hazardous conditions are either occurring or imminent, and officials caution that a Small Craft Warning could be issued if conditions worsen.

Inexperienced mariners and operators of smaller vessels are strongly urged to remain in port and avoid navigating during this period.

The public is advised to stay updated through official channels, including antiguamet.com, social media platforms @abmetservice, and local broadcasts such as ABS Radio and Television.