(CNMI Homeland Security and Emergency Management) — Based on information received from the National Weather Service in Tiyan Guam, and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, a high surf advisory is in effect on Saipan, Tinian and Rota until 6 p.m. Thursday.
There is a high risk of rip currents through Thursday afternoon with large breaking waves of 7 to 9 feet in the surf zone along south-facing reefs as well as dangerous rip currents along east- and south-facing reefs.
Possible impacts include dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.
In addition, a large southeast swell is expected to bring hazardous surf conditions to east- and south-facing reefs through Thursday afternoon.
Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions.
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios is reminding the general public to stay out of the waters along east- and south-facing reefs. 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.
