High-Wind Advisory and Small-craft Warning in effect for SVG

A High-Wind Advisory and Small-craft Warning is in effect for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and its coastal waters.

The advisory, which took effect from 6:00 p.m., yesterday, December 31, 2020, will remain in place until 6:00 pm Sunday,  January 3, 2021.

The Meteorological Services Department of the Argyle International Airport in a release issued yesterday said a strengthening Atlantic High Pressure System is expected to generate strong surface  winds and above normal north-easterly swells across St Vincent and the Grenadines into late Sunday. During this time period, strong winds with speeds of 25 to 33 knots (47  to 61 km/h) with higher gusts, and rough seas with swells peaking to 3.0 meters (10 feet) are anticipated.

A High-Wind Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 25 to 33 knots (47 to 61km/h),  not associated with a tropical cyclone, are forecast to affect the land area. Residents are  strongly urged to be vigilant against falling trees limbs, loose outdoor objects and  disconnected over-head wires. Residents are also advised to check roofs for loose  sheeting/nails and do the necessary repairs.

A Small-Craft Warning in this case means that seas equal to or greater than 3.0 meters (10 feet) and / or mean wind-speeds of 25 to 33 knots (47 to 61km/h) will affect the marine  area. Large waves and dangerous rip-currents will create unsafe conditions for small-craft  operators, particularly on the northern and eastern coastlines. These conditions may  become even more adverse at times of high tide. Therefore, small-craft operators should  exercise extreme caution, possibly securing their vessels by this evening. Sea-bathers are  also advised to stay out of the water.

High-tide times are expected near 6:36 am Friday

7:21 am and 11:37 pm Saturday

8:09 am and 11:10 pm Sunday

This high wind advisory and small craft warning may be extended if conditions warrant, the release said.