Update: The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has upgraded the existing Small Craft Advisory to a Small Craft and High Surf Warning, as rough sea conditions and high surf are expected along the island’s coastlines and in open waters on Thursday, October 9, 2025.
The warning comes as Tropical Storm Jerry approaches the region, with recent model guidance indicating a further deterioration in swell heights.
Swells are forecast to increase from two to 2.5 metres on Wednesday, reaching between 2.5 and 3.5 metres on Thursday before gradually easing into the weekend.
Southerly winds may also contribute to choppy conditions along the south coast throughout Thursday.
Authorities have warned that frequent overtopping of waves onto coastal roads and property is possible, with some beaches likely to be fully submerged. Damage to coastal homes and roads could occur, and marine users are urged to exercise caution.
Delays at the port are also expected due to possible closures or berthing challenges.
The public is advised to follow guidance from the Barbados Fisheries Division, the National Conservation Commission, and other relevant authorities, and to monitor updates from the BMS, Department of Emergency Management (DEM), and Government Information Service (GIS).
A Small Craft Warning is issued when sustained winds of 25 to 33 knots or swells greater than three metres are forecast within 36 hours. A High Surf Warning is issued when breaking waves pose a significant threat to life and property in the surf zone.
This warning was issued at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, and will be updated if conditions change.
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Earlier story
The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has issued a Small Craft Advisory for Barbados.
According to the BMS, the deteriorating sea conditions are being generated by Tropical Storm Jerry as it approaches the northern Caribbean.
Swell heights are forecast to increase from around two metres on Wednesday to between 2.5 and 3 metres on Thursday, before gradually improving into the weekend as the system moves out of the region.
Marine users and beachgoers are being urged to exercise caution, as large open-water swells could make operating smaller vessels hazardous and may result in beach erosion or dangerous surf, particularly during high tide. The public is also advised to secure objects along the shoreline that could be swept away by wave action and to use beaches monitored by lifeguards.
A Small Craft Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 20 to 25 knots and/or sea swells of between 2.5 and 3 metres are expected within 36 hours.
The advisory, which was issued at noon on today, will be updated at 6 p.m. on Wednesday or sooner if conditions change. (BMS)
