The public is being warned that a high surf advisory remains in effect until 5pm Saturday and that there is a high risk of rip currents through Saturday afternoon.

Based on the information received from the National Weather Service in Guam and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, large breaking waves of 7 to 9 feet and dangerous rip currents are present in south and west facing reefs of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

These 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.

A large monsoon swell is producing hazardous surf conditions along with a high risk of rip currents to south and west facing reefs.

Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions.

The public is advised to stay out of the waters along south and west facing reefs. Swim near a lifeguard. 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)

Rough seas