High surf, rip current advisory until Friday

Based on the information received from the National Weather Service in Guam and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, a high surf advisory is in effect until 6am Friday for north facing reefs on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. Hazardous surf of 7 to 9 feet and dangerous rip currents are present in north facing reefs until 6am Friday.

These conditions will create dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.

Residents of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota are being advised to avoid venturing out near reef lines facing north. Large breaking waves can knock you down and cause serious injuries. Strong rip currents will be life threatening. Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help. (PR)