Marine Warning Large swells affecting

Published 12th October, 2:46pm

The National Hurricane Center in Florida is issuing bulletins on Hurricane Paula, which at 1 p.m. was located near 18.8 N 85.8 W or about 290 miles W of Grand Cayman. Paula is moving towards the NNW near 10 mph with max sustained winds near 100 mph.

This storm currently poses no immediate threat to the Cayman Islands; however, the CINWS will continue to monitor the progress of this system over the next few days.

Latest hurricane information from the National Hurricane Center at 1 p.m. indicates that Paula has strengthened to a category 2 hurricane. This strengthening will result in increased heavy swells along the west and south coasts of the Cayman Islands, posing a threat to boating and beach activities in those areas.

The National Weather Service has issued a Marine Warning for Water Sports activities and other small crafts. All necessary action to ensure safety in these areas of activity should be undertaken.

This bulletin will be updated later today at 4 p.m.

HMCI Note to Residents

Avoid swimming on the south and west coasts. Currents may be strong particularly around channels.

Boaters should exercise caution near the coast in these areas due to the possibility of a significant ‘ground swell.’

Exercise caution and stay well back when observing large waves. Successive waves can vary substantially in size and magnitude.

For further information contact: Simon Boxall