Rough seas and big waves are expected in the coming days, prompting the public to exercise caution.
The NSRI, in collaboration with police, maritime authorities, DRM (Disaster Risk Management), and emergency services, is advising boaters, sailors, paddlers, bathers, anglers, and coastal hikers to be aware of a SAWS (South African Weather Services) warning along the West Coast coastline, Western Cape Coast coastline, South Cape Coast coastline, and potentially beyond, for the next few days.
Also read: NSRI duty crew recovers female body from Knysna Lagoon
The SAWS forecast for rough sea conditions may also be influenced by the full moon Spring tide, which peaks today, causing the normal daily two high tides and daily two low tides to be higher than normal at high tide and lower than normal at low tide.
Spring tides can cause stronger than usual rip currents, and areas that are normally unaffected by waves at high tide may become engulfed by them during the Spring high tide.
Caution is advised, and the NSRI appeal to the general public and the maritime community to prioritise safety.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price? Get exclusive offers here.
Anglers should take note of the high tide times and stay away from the shoreline during the two daily high tides.
Anglers should avoid crossing to islands along the coast to fish during low tide, as these islands can be cut off from the mainland during high tide.
Coastal hikers should avoid crossing at river mouths, where currents can be especially strong during the outgoing tide, and instead try to cross via hiking trails close to the shoreline during high tide.
Boaters, sailors, and paddlers should wear their life jackets while their craft and/or vessels are underway and during rough sea conditions, and to always have safety equipment on hand.
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings with these incredible deals on cars for under R100 000. Find car listings here.
Also read:
Join NSRI’s winter solstice plunge to support rescue efforts
Picture: Torsten Dederichs/Unsplash
