Diving Association Warns Boat and Ship Owners of Weather Fluctuations During 'Al-Ahimer' Season

The Kuwaiti Diving Team, operating under the Environmental Volunteer Foundation, has warned boat and ship owners and sea-goers about weather fluctuations during the Al-Ahimer star season, stressing the need for utmost caution and advising against night sailing during this period unless official authorities confirm that weather conditions are fully and accurately stable.

Waleed Al-Fadil, head of the team, told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Thursday that the danger of sailing during the Al-Ahimer star season, known as “Al-Ahimer’s Strike” or “Al-Ahimer’s Disappearance,” lies in the violent and sudden climatic changes that strike the Arabian Gulf and the Arabian Sea.

Al-Fadil added that this period, which begins in mid-November and lasts for about 40 to 45 days, is among the most dangerous maritime seasons. Historically, pearl divers and Gulf sailors avoided going to sea entirely during this time, mooring and securing their vessels in ports.

Regarding the main risks of sailing during this season, he explained that they include increased activity of stormy winds and severe atmospheric disturbances resulting from the transition between autumn and winter, making sea condition forecasts difficult and deceptive. Strong northwesterly or westerly winds can reach speeds of 80 to 120 kilometers per hour at times.

He noted that such wind speeds were capable of destroying ship sails and capsizing boats in the past, accompanied by sudden sea surges and wave heights reaching dangerous levels that could sink sailing vessels and fishing boats.

In this regard, Al-Fadil urged sea-goers to adhere to essential safety guidelines, primarily avoiding sailing altogether during nighttime hours due to reduced visibility and the difficulty of coping with sudden weather changes or water currents. He also advised staying completely away from known maritime sites with strong currents and high risks during this period.

He identified these hazardous sites as Ras Al-Ard, Ras Al-Jali’a, and Ras Al-Zour, where sailing becomes significantly more dangerous due to severe wave disturbances. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the efficiency of safety and rescue equipment on board, activating tracking and communication devices, and closely monitoring weather forecasts before deciding to go to sea.

Al-Fadil said that while seafarers typically rejoice during these days due to increased fish catches after the summer season, this period is also accompanied by several risks, as most shipwrecks in Kuwait, both historically and currently, occur during this season.

He stressed the importance of complying with these instructions, which form the cornerstone of preserving lives and property, and expressed gratitude to the General Administration of Coast Guard and the General Fire Force for their efforts and the services they provide to seafarers.