The authorities in Santa Marta implemented preventive measures against the strong waves caused by Hurricane Melissa.
Santa Marta is experiencing the effects of Hurricane Melissa, which in recent hours has caused a considerable increase in waves and altered maritime conditions in the coastal area.
Given the situation, The Port Captaincy ordered the restriction of the navigation of small vessels and the suspension of sports and nautical activities on the district’s beaches.
Captain Julio Monroy, head of the Santa Marta Port Captaincy, explained that The measures seek to protect the lives of tourists, bathers and sea workerstaking into account the risks generated by the phenomenon in the boarding and disembarkation processes.
“We evaluate the meteoromarine conditions every day. In general the restriction remains, although at some times very specific activities are allowed, such as certain diving trips,” said the officer.
The restrictions mainly affect maritime transport of passengers to beaches such as Playa Blanca, Inca Inca and Taganga, as well as jet skis.kayaks and diving services, which will remain suspended until further notice.
Monroy pointed out thatThe Captaincy maintains permanent contact with the maritime unionsincluding the International Navy and tourist transport companies, to guarantee compliance with the measures and avoid accidents.
Although bathers have not been prohibited from entering the sea, the situation is monitored together with the District Institute of Tourism (Indetur) and the Mayor’s Office of Santa Marta. On the busiest beaches, such as El Rodadero, La Bahía and Marina Internacional, authorities have been deployed to inform visitors and residents about sea conditions.
“We are coordinating with the Mayor’s Office, the Police and other entities to warn bathers when conditions are not favorable. In the mornings there may be a certain calm, but the waves increase as the day goes by,” explained Captain Monroy.
According to reports from the National Marine Meteorological Service of the General Maritime Directorate (Dimar), conditions are expected to begin to normalize starting this weekend, once Hurricane Melissa moves away from the Caribbean.
Meanwhile, The authorities reiterated the call to citizens to stay informed through official channelsavoid entering the sea when there are red flags or warnings and follow the instructions of the relief agencies.
Source: Integrated Information System
