ANTIGUA — The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a high surf warning for northern and northeastern coastlines across several islands in the northeastern Caribbean, cautioning residents and visitors to stay out of the water due to life-threatening marine conditions.

The alert, issued at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, applies to Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, and St. Kitts and Nevis. The warning remains in effect until midday Monday.

Forecaster Letitia Humphreys said long-period swells measuring between 2.4 and 3.1 meters (8 to 10 feet), and possibly reaching up to 3.7 meters (12 feet), are expected to generate breaking waves over 2.7 meters (9 feet). The swells, with a period of 13 to 14 seconds, are likely to create extremely dangerous rip currents and hazardous surf along exposed coastlines.

Authorities warned that the conditions could result in beach erosion, coastal flooding, and damage to roads, marine facilities, and coral reefs. Small craft operators were advised to remain in port, and beachgoers were urged to avoid rocky or open shorelines.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates through antiguamet.com, the Meteorological Service’s social media pages.

“People should not enter the water in affected areas,” Humphreys said, noting that only sheltered southern beaches or lifeguard-supervised locations should be used for swimming until the warning is lifted.