El Naval Meteorological Service (Servimet), together with Directemar, activated a storm surge warning for the northern coast of Chile, with special attention to open bays and exposed sectors of the coast.
The condition will remain in effect from Tuesday morning, August 19th, until Wednesday evening, August 20th., a period in which waves with breaker and increased undertow are expected, especially at times of high tide.
Affected areas and validity
The event will cover the coastal strip between Coquimbo and Arica, including the regions of Coquimbo, Antofagasta, Tarapacá (Iquique) and Arica and Parinacota, while The rest of the country would remain under normal conditions on the sea surface.
According to the Maritime Authority, this is an episode associated with the passage of a frontal system in the oceanic sector, which will drive waves of west/southwest component to surf in open bays. According to the Maritime Meteorological Center of Valparaíso, this corresponds to the twentieth storm surge advisory so far this year.
Critical schedules and expected behavior
Authorities estimate that the greatest development of the phenomenon will coincide with the high tides from 07:00 to 09:00 hours and 19 am to 00 am, windows in which wave height and breaking energy increase.
During these stretches, you could register wave overtopping on coastal walks, dragging sand, boulders and loose objects, as well as adverse conditions for minor navigation and recreational activities on the coast.
Safety recommendations
The Maritime Authority urges action with prudence and caution, avoiding risky behavior on the coast while the warning is in effect.
- Avoid rocky areas and surf zones for walks, photography or recreational fishing.
- Do not enter the sea on beaches with a red flag or without lifeguard service.
- Do not engage in nautical activities nor sports without proper authorization.
- If you drive along the coast, take extreme caution due to possible dragging of sand, stones or algae.
- In homes near the sea, protect doors and windows and place temporary barriers such as sandbags.
For updated information and detailed maps, it is recommended to consult the official channels of Servimet, Directemar and Harbor Masters, which will adjust the forecast according to the evolution of the frontal system.
Causes and antecedents
The notice is originated by the passage of a frontal system in the Pacific which generates swell of direction west/southwest, favoring longer wave trains that impact strongly in open bays.
At this time of year, an upsurge of these episodes is common in the north chico and extreme north, and the current joins a season with high frequency of notices, according to the Maritime Meteorological Center of Valparaíso, whose chief, Lieutenant Commander Felipe Rifo Espósito, had already anticipated the greatest impact at high tide times.
Institutions reiterate that prevention is essential during this period of storm surges. Respect closures, signs, and safety perimeters. significantly reduces the risk of incidents on the coastline.