USVI and Puerto Rico Brace for Challenging Weather: High Seas and Strong Winds Expected

The National Weather Service has alerted the public about challenging weather conditions expected to affect the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico this week. Both residents and visitors are advised to stay vigilant as the region faces turbulent seas, dangerous rip currents, and strong winds.

Weather Outlook:

For the USVI and Puerto Rico, the week’s forecast warns of demanding marine conditions. Northeast winds will prevail, blowing at 15-20 mph and occasionally intensifying to gusts of up to 30 mph. This wind pattern will impact several areas of the islands and surrounding waters. The situation is expected to worsen later in the week with the arrival of northerly swells.

Key Risks and Advisories:

• Marine Safety: Mariners and boaters are urged to proceed with caution as seas are predicted to be tumultuous, with wave heights ranging from 6 to 10 feet and potential surges reaching 13 feet. Wind speeds will hover between 15-25 knots, spiking to around 30 knots at times. A Small Craft Advisory has been issued for most local waters, with the exception of southern Puerto Rico’s coastal waters.
• Coastal Hazards: Beachgoers should exercise extreme caution due to the high likelihood of life-threatening rip currents and large breaking waves, expected to range from 6 to 10 feet, occasionally higher. A High Rip Current Risk warning is in place for north and east-facing beaches in Puerto Rico, Culebra, Vieques, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Additionally, a High Surf Advisory is active for the northern and eastern shores of Puerto Rico, Culebra, and the northern USVI.
• Wind Concerns: Inhabitants of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands should prepare for sustained winds of 15 to 20 mph, with the possibility of gusts up to 30 mph. These conditions might affect unsecured outdoor items.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to keep abreast of weather updates and take all necessary safety measures during this period of challenging weather conditions.