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WWPQ81 PGUM 080130
SPSPQ1

Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Tiyan GU
1130 AM ChST Wed Jan 8 2025

MHZ002-090400-
Majuro-
1130 AM ChST Wed Jan 8 2025

...HAZARDOUS SEAS AND SURF, AND MINOR COASTAL INUNDATION EXPECTED
DUE TO LONG-PERIOD NORTH SWELL MOVING INTO THE MARSHALL ISLANDS...

Choppy seas and elevated surf have already been occurring across the
region due to a building northeast winds and swell, along with long-
period north swell generated by storms moving across the north
Pacific. Seas and surf will continue to build further, probably
peaking around Thursday or Friday and then diminishing over the
weekend.

Model guidance suggests the north swell will move through with a
period around 15 seconds and height of at least 5-7 feet, creating
hazardous surf around 12 feet and minor coastal inundation up to a
half of a foot, especially along north facing reefs during high
tide, which will see the brunt of the swell. All atolls with
lagoons, such as Majuro and Kwajalein, should also watch for
inundation along shores facing into the lagoon, especially shores
facing northward as high surf pushes water into the lagoon from the
north. All islands of the Marshall Islands have the potential to see
impacts from this north swell event, so be mindful when near the
water or traveling along roads near north facing shores. Also, with
the expected increase in trade-winds and swell around the same time,
inter-island travel via boat will be hazardous with seas around 10
feet and winds around 25 knots.

Residents should monitor local sea conditions and forecasts through
the end of this week. Be alert for minor flooding and debris on
roads and property near shores, along with hazardous surfing,
swimming, and boating conditions. Stay up to date with information
from your Weather Service Office in Majuro, and any information
shared from local emergency management offices. The latest Majuro
forecasts can be found at weather.gov/gum/PublicForecasts.

$$

Schank/Simpson