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The Coast Guard on Monday warned recreational boaters, fishermen, beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico not to engage in water activities because of deteriorating ocean conditions and dangerous rip currents from Tropical Storm Ernesto.
The National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm warning for the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, which is expected to begin late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.
Storm surge could impact parts of the Leeward Islands beginning Monday night and continuing throughout the week, with the potential for life-threatening rip currents and rip currents.
Additionally, storm surge is expected to potentially raise sea levels by one to three feet along Puerto Rico’s east coast from San Juan to Guayama (including the islands of Culebra and Vieques), as well as the Virgin Islands of the United States, such as St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix.
“We urge the public and the maritime community to stay safe and not underestimate the impacts of this storm,” said Capt. Luis Rodriguez, commandant of Coast Guard Sector San Juan. “We anticipate life-threatening surf and rip currents and sea conditions projected throughout the week may reduce our ability to respond to emergencies. Secure your vessel before conditions worsen. Until conditions return to normal, stay out of the water, monitor marine weather forecasts and follow National Weather Service warnings.”
Currently, X-ray port status remains in effect for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, meaning those ports remain open to ship traffic. However, facilities are urged to review their severe weather response plans and make necessary preparations. The Coast Guard will continue to monitor Tropical Storm Ernesto and will communicate any changes in port conditions.
To report a marine emergency in Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, contact the Coast Guard Rescue Center at 787-289-2041 or use VHF radio channel 16 (the International Maritime Emergency Frequency).
The Coast Guard also reminds the public of the following safety information:
- Stay away from the beach. Wave heights and currents usually increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the high waves and rip currents caused by a hurricane. Avoid beaches until authorities declare it safe.
- Be careful of rip currents. A rip current is a strong current that can move quickly away from the shore. If you are caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore to escape. Do not try to swim directly against the current as you can easily become exhausted.
- Keep your belongings safe. Owners of larger boats should move them to inland docks where they are less likely to become loose or damaged. Transportable boats should be removed from the water and stored in a location less prone to flooding.
- Prepare. Area residents should make household plans, create disaster supply kits, secure their homes and make plans for pets.
- Stay informed. Monitor the storm’s progress and intensity via local television, radio, and the Internet. Boaters can follow the storm’s progress via VHF radio channel 16.
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