High Surf — Vieques, Puerto Rico

2009-12-27 · Vieques, Puerto Rico

Event narrative

High surf generated strong currents which overtook a swimmer at Barrio Puerto Real, Esperanza Beach in Vieques.

Wider weather episode

A deep and slow moving low pressure system across the north central Atlantic generated large swells which began affecting Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands late in the day on Saturday December 26th, 2009. Several different batches of swell were forecast to affect the local islands, with the largest anticipated for late in the day Monday December 28th through Tuesday December 29th, 2009. 1 fatality Aguadilla, PR (drowning in rough surf). 1 fatality Vieques, PR (rip-current). 1 report of a floating body, but not recovered, in Condado, PR at 5:30 PM AST Monday December 28th, 2009 ' search resumed Tuesday December 29th, 2009. Deaths: 2 confirmed, 1 unconfirmed. Eight 8 persons rescued in Manati, PR, 5 of which required hospitalization. 1 person rescued in Carolina, PR in good condition, 1 person rescued in Isabela, PR in good condition, 2 additional people rescued in Isabela, PR that refused medical services. Minor Coastal Flooding/Beach erosion/Minor Structural Damage.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 200566. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.