SEASONAL WIND AND WATER CONDITIONS
Summer is here and Okinawa’s ocean will take on different moods, with prevailing wind and swells approaching the island more frequently from the south and the east. We will see less frequent swells through these summer months in the west sector of the island, while easterly swell from the Pacific tends to remain consistent year round.
Often, dangerous ocean conditions will coincide with typhoons approaching the island and it should be kept in mind that those storms which don’t come close enough to the island to affect TCCOR status can still deliver large surf and dangerous ocean conditions. As these swells generated by Tropical Storms and Typhoons can travel a long distance before arriving at Okinawa beaches, they will have much longer swell interval – meaning waves are moving faster and can be much more powerful.
Also, swells generated by distant storms are characterized by long-intervals of calm seas (up to 20 minutes) followed by larger sets and possibility of ‘rogue waves’. It’s not uncommon for beachgoers and ‘wave watchers’ to be observing the ocean for 15 to 20 minutes, only to be surprised by the sudden arrival of a group of waves two or three times larger than those they’ve been observing.
According to drowning statistics in the SOFA community since 2000, nearly 20% of drownings were of individuals who were fully clothed and not planning to enter the water. Be aware and keep a safe distance from the water’s edge; rogue waves can easily catch you off-guard and pull you unexpectedly into the sea.
Another critical statistic highlights that 45% of fatal ocean mishaps in Okinawa involve snorkelers, particularly those without proper floatation devices such as snorkel vests.
Per MARFORJ5101.1Ch1: “To maintain buoyancy and facilitate any necessary rescue, personnel snorkeling and freediving shall wear appropriately-sized vests designed for activity e.g., snorkel vests for snorkeling and freediver recovery vest or snorkel vest for freediving.”
Snorkel vests can be borrowed for no cost, and for up to three days from Tsunami Scuba locations on Camps Schwab, Hansen, Torii Station, Courtney, and Foster, and from the Fitness Center on Camp Kinser.
Keep in mind that the earlier summer months of May and June are known as Okinawa’s “rainy season”. While you may find calm waters during this time of year, heavy rain can greatly reduce visibility. Divers should be aware as there is a heightened of being separated from your group during a dive.
And it is recommended to keep covered while in the water as much as possible; summer means heightened risk for heat related illnesses, so keeping your head and skin covered can help prevent painful sunburns.
Long sleeved rash guards, a hat on your head, and protective footwear such as felt-bottomed reef shoes can also protect you from hazardous marine life (such as box-jellyfish which are in season from 1 May through 30 September).
When planning to participate in recreational activities in the ocean, make sure to always;
- Check your Sea Conditions before entering the water, which can be found on your MCCS Okinawa Liberty App
- Wear a floatation device and remember that snorkeling vests are free and available to you
- Use the buddy system at all times in the ocean
- Have a plan and let someone know where you plan to enter the ocean and what time you expect to return
- Consider your abilities as a swimmer, surfer, diver, etc. and plan your ocean recreation accordingly
- Always swim, surf, paddle, snorkel, and dive within your limits