Coast Guard echoes MET Office’s warning about high winds and high surf and advises beachgoers, vendors and boaters to be careful

With the heavy winds now being felt across the country, the Antigua
and Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guard is repeating the MET
Office’s warning for residents to be extremely careful during this
time.
 
The MET Office, on Sunday, January 21, issued a high-wind advisory
for Antigua and Barbuda, along with St. Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla,
and the British Virgin Islands.
 
As a result of the high winds, high-surf and small-craft advisories
have been issued, as well.
 
The high-wind advisory went into effect on January 24 and is
expected to be in place until the evening of Friday, January 26.
 
The Coast Guard is advising all mariners to pay keen attention to
daily weather advisories and exercise extreme caution when

venturing to the sea, taking into account the prevailing weather
condition.
 
It was noted that individuals with boats or other sea-going craft
should ensure that their vessels are able to manage the strong wind
and have the necessary safety equipment on board, ensuring they
are in good condition.
 
Mariners with vessels which are at anchor should pay attention to
mooring lines and anchor lines, ensuring that the vessels are
properly secured.
 
Additionally, the Coast Guard is sending a warning to beachgoers
and those who ply their trade on the beaches to exercise extreme
caution and to be vigilant at all times.
 
Anyone who may encounter difficulty at sea can reach the ABDF
Coast Guard via Marine VHF Channel 16, or through landline contact
at 462-2841/3, 462-3206, 462-0671, or via email
at CGOPS@abdf.gov.ag.