Small craft warning is in effect until further notice

March 4, 2018

~ High surf warning in effect until Mon. ~

AIRPORT–Small craft operators and sea bathers are urged to stay on shore by the Met Office.
A high surf warning remains in effect until tomorrow, Monday, for St. Maarten. Nevertheless, rough seas will persist with waves peaking more than 10 feet particularly on the northern and eastern coasts. As a result, a small craft warning is in effect for St. Maarten until further notice.
As a result of the large breaking waves, hazardous conditions can be expected on our north and east facing shores. Other sections of our coasts could also experience locally rough seas. Some coastal flooding is also possible in a few spots and owners of coastal facilities should try to protect their possessions against destructive waves, wherever this is possible.
Hazardous sea conditions are expected for the next several days as long period northwest to northerly swells continue to affect the region. The swell is forecast to peak between today and early tomorrow, with building seas near 15 feet possible across the Atlantic waters. The northerly swell will slowly subside as the week progress.
A strong low-pressure system north of the region is influencing a westerly wind flow and long period swells, causing hazardous seas across the region. Additionally, moisture associated with a weak frontal system approaching the region will increase cloudiness and the chance for isolated showers across the local area.