Public warned of rough seas, rip currents

There is a high risk of dangerous rip currents on Tinian and Saipan through this morning, Tuesday, based on the information received from the National Weather Service in Guam and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point.

Also, a small craft advisory is in effect until 6am today.

Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water. The public is advised to stay out of the water along east facing reefs. Elsewhere, 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.

East winds 15 to 25 knots with gusts of up to 30 knots and seas of 6 to 8 feet are present in Tinian and Saipan coastal waters until 6am today. These conditions will be hazardous to small craft. Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, are advised to avoid navigating in hazardous conditions. (Saipan Tribune)