Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines,February 20, 2009 (National Emergency Management Organization) - According to a 10:45 a.m. weather update from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Office (SVGMET), large northerly swells and breaking waves will generate strong and dangerous rip currents along the north, west and east coasts of St. Vincent and the Grenadines over the next few days.

These hazardous and rough seas with swells peaking at about 4.5 meters will create unsafe conditions for small crafts and sea bathers. This warning and Advisory will be in effect until Sunday 22nd February, 2009.

The National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) is urging all fishermen and sea bathers to exercise caution and be on the look out for these large swells.   NEMO is also advising fishermen going out at sea to take along the following:

• Safety gears, such as, floatation devices, a mirror or flares to signal if you are in distress;
• Water light torch with spare batteries and bulbs;
• Water, food supply;
• A compass;
• VHF Radio or cell phone in your boat to call for help if necessary.
  

Large swells can also result in damage to boats.  If necessary, please secure your boats and continue to listen to your local radio stations for more update.

Please contact:     
Howie Prince, Director, NEMO
Tel: 784-456-2975, ext. 550
Fax  784-457-1691
Email: nemosvg@gmail.com