One Fatality as Massive Waves Pound Barbados

 

As Barbados’ coasts received a pounding from huge waves generated by an atlantic storm, an elderly gentleman got into difficulty swimming and drowned today.

Noel Austin, who accompanied the elderly man to the beach this morning admitted there were red flags on the beach when they arrived, indicating danger and that swimming was therefore not advised. He said they still ventured into the water, but he emerged after realising the waters were too rough. Unfortunately, Austin said, his friend dismissed his advice to do the same.

The best efforts of the Coast Guard and a lifeguard on duty to save the St. Michael man were in vain.

 The heavy seas also affected operations at the Barbados Port where three cruise ships were forced to abort attempts to berth at the deep water harbour for safety reasons. After discussions between the captains and the Harbourmaster it was decided that conditions were too rough to allow for the tendering of passengers to the shore.  The port was offloading one small cargo ship that had a perishable cargo, but indicated that it’ s operations as far as servicing ships would be curtailed for the day. (The port remains open for deliveries of cargo)

There are some reports of property damage in neigbouring St. Lucia however we are short on details.

It is anticipated that the swell will become more intense over Friday but that sea conditions should be back to normal by Saturday.

We will continue to follow this story as details come to hand.

Marginal.