The Papua New Guinea National Weather Service has issued strong and gale force wind warnings for various coastal areas, effective from Sunday, August 4, 2024.
These warnings come as the country braces for winds ranging from 25 to 47 knots over the next 24 hours, leading to rough and very rough seas.
Strong Wind Warning:
Strong winds of 25 to 33 knots are forecasted for the coastal waters stretching from the southern PNG/Indonesia border to Daru, Port Moresby, Milne Bay Province, and along the coastlines of West New Britain, Siassi, Finschhafen, Long Island, Karkar Island, Manam Island, and East Sepik. A trough from Huon Gulf to AROB and a lee trough from the PNG/Indonesia border through the Highlands, Gulf, Central, and Oro provinces are contributing to these conditions. Additionally, convergence zones near New Ireland and the Bismarck Sea suggest unsettled weather.
Gale Force Wind Warning:
A more severe gale wind warning has been issued for the western part of West New Britain, from Kaliai Kove to Cape Gloucester, Siassi, across Vitiaz Strait, Long Island, and the western sector of the Bismarck Sea. Here, very strong southeast winds ranging from 34 to 47 knots are expected, which could cause very rough seas and pose a significant danger.
The weather patterns are further influenced by a high-pressure system over New South Wales, Australia, which is intensifying the wind conditions in these areas.
All small crafts and boats are strongly advised to take necessary precautions or avoid going out to sea in these affected regions.
Coastal villages in the warning areas are also urged to take measures to ensure safety and prevent accidents.
The warnings will be reviewed and updated at 5:00 AM on Monday, August 5, 2024.
For more details and safety guidelines, contact the National Weather Service or visit their official website.