SAIPAN – The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management issued a high rip current advisory Tuesday afternoon for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, with dangerous rip currents expected along east-facing reefs through Thursday afternoon.
The advisory, compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point based on information from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, said buoy and altimetry data support swells capable of producing surf up to 9 feet along east-facing reefs.
Rip currents can sweep even the strongest swimmers away from shore into deeper water, the advisory said.
Governor David M. Apatang is reminding the public to stay out of the waters along east-facing reefs. Anyone caught in a rip current should relax and float rather than swim against the current, the advisory said. If able, swimmers should move in a direction following the shoreline. Anyone unable to escape should face the shore and call or wave for help.
The advisory remains in effect through Thursday afternoon.