A High Wind Advisory is in effect from 6pm today until 6pm Sunday 3rd January 2021. Residents and motorists are advised to be extremely vigilant and secure all loose objects. The expected conditions are due to the strengthening of the Atlantic high pressure system. A few showers are also likely tonight and over the next 72 hours as low-level winds occasionally converge. Fresh (30 – 40 km/h) north easterly trades are moving across the islands, further increasing to strong (50 km/h) breeze by Friday and would persist into the weekend. Persons in wind-exposed areas or elevated terrain should be alert/prepared; as higher wind gusts nearing gale (50 – 60 km/h) strength are possible.
Consequently, moderate sea-conditions are across our islands with north-easterly swells peaking near 1.5 m on western coasts and 2.5 m on eastern coasts and increasing. A small craft warning is in effect. Small craft operators should exercise extreme caution and sea bathers are advised to stay out of the water. As wind-speeds increase within the next 12 hours, sea-conditions could deteriorate and become rough (near 3.0 m) on eastern coasts during Friday and near 2.0 m on western coasts. Further deterioration may occur during nightfall and continue during the weekend.
No significant haze intrusion is anticipated within this forecast period.