Barbados continues to face substantial marine hazards as meteorological authorities extend safety advisories amid persistently dangerous ocean conditions. The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) maintains its Small Craft and High Surf Advisory through Saturday morning, warning of sustained Atlantic swells measuring 2.5 to 3.0 meters that are creating treacherous coastal environments.
The intensified sea conditions, generated by a robust Atlantic high-pressure system producing winds of 20-30 knots, present multiple threats to marine operations and coastal infrastructure. Small craft operators face particularly hazardous operating conditions with difficult navigation and elevated capsizing risks. Coastal regions, especially along northern, eastern, and southern shorelines, remain vulnerable to significant beach erosion and temporary submersion during high tide cycles.
Authorities have issued stern warnings regarding potential safety consequences, including the possibility of serious injury or fatalities if precautionary measures are disregarded. The National Conservation Commission has joined meteorological officials in urging extreme caution for marine users and beachgoers alike.
The BMS indicates these agitated sea conditions will gradually diminish over the weekend, with current models projecting improvement by Saturday, December 20, at 6:00 AM, though earlier termination remains possible if conditions improve unexpectedly. Residents and visitors are advised to continuously monitor updates through official channels including the Department of Emergency Management and Barbados Government Information Service for real-time safety information.
For detailed updates, the public may access the Barbados Meteorological Services website or utilize their emergency hotline at 976-2376.