HIGH SURF WARNING ISSUED BY THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE 05:00 PM TUESDAY 13 AUGUST 2024

Turks and Caicos, August 14, 2024 – Swells generated by Tropical Storm Ernesto are expected to impact the Turks and Caicos Islands by Wednesday afternoon until Thursday evening.

Seas (significant wave height): 7 to 11 feet in easterly swell, occasionally reaching over 11 feet

Surf (breaking swells): Over 10 feet

A high surf warning means that dangerous surfs greater than 10 feet will affect mainly north to east-facing coastlines in the advisory area, producing hazardous marine conditions.

Potential impacts:

• Dangerous rip currents along Atlantic–facing coastlines

• Loss of life–strong currents that can carry even the strongest swimmers out to sea

• High surfs can knock spectators off exposed rocks and jetties.

• Localized disruptions to marine recreation and businesses

• Coastal flooding and beach erosion

Beachgoers and small craft operators should be extremely cautious and refrain from entering the waters.

Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing quickly away from shore, which occur most often at low spots or breaks in the sandbar and near structures such as groins, jetties, and piers. 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.

Please continue to monitor these hazardous, life-threatening marine conditions. Stay tuned to updates coming out of the TCINWS via https://buff.ly/3PXdo8f, the TCINWS WhatsApp Broadcast Channel https://buff.ly/4bQzBgy and the DDME Alert App. Also, stay tuned to Radio Turks and Caicos and Power 92.5 FM along with other media platforms for updates.

Forecaster: H. Hamilton