Saipan Tribune

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

High surf, small craft advisories still in effect

The CNMI Emergency Management Office reiterated yesterday that its high surf advisory remains in effect until 6am Wednesday along north facing reefs.

Based on information EMO received from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, a north to northeast swell and wind waves generated by a shear line will continue to diminish but surf will remain hazardous on north facing shores. Surf on east facing reefs has already dropped below hazardous levels.

According to EMO, hazardous surf of 8 to 10 feet was expected along north facing shores last night before dropping below hazardous levels this morning.

A small craft advisory remains in effect until 6am today, Jan. 23.

Winds are expected to fall below small craft advisory criteria by Wednesday morning. Similarly, combined seas are projected to gradually diminish, reaching 9 feet this morning.

Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid still boating in these conditions. If travel by boat is necessary, exercise caution especially near reef lines and when entering or leaving harbors and inlets.

The public is urged to avoid venturing near exposed reefs and beaches, especially those along north and east facing reefs as rip currents are life threatening. (EMO)