LC Gulatatae which was heading to East Are’are and East Kwaio was forced to take shelter at Ta’arumanu after experiencing heavy seas early this morning.
According to a passenger onboard the vessel, crews onboard the vessel had to throw building materials overboard as water started filling the ship early this morning.
He said the ship had to stop at Ta’arumanu for shelter and maintenance before heading to Afio.
All passengers and crew are safe.
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Services has been issuing strong wind warnings since last week.
SIMS today said strong wind warning is current for most waters of Solomon Islands as a trough lies north of the country causing general southeast trade wind flow over the islands.
It said the country will experience southeasterly winds reaching 20 to 25 knots over most waters of Solomon Islands.
It said seas will be moderate to rough and moderate southerly swells and people will expect poor visibility in heavy rain and thunderstorm areas.
It urged people to take precautionary measures as such strong winds have the potential to impact lives and properties.
“Sea travellers are urged to consider safety actions as such winds can produce dangerous wave conditions which are hazardous to small boats,” SIMS said.
