NSRI issue Western Cape storm and spring tide warning

NSRI urges public caution around the coastline this weekend following an SA Weather Service alert forecasting adverse weather around the Western Cape coastline with storm conditions, strong winds, heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions late Saturday and into Sunday.

The National Sea Rescue institute (NSRI) have issued a warning of rough seas to the public in the Western Cape.

A storm system is expected to hit the Cape this weekend and coupled with the New Moon Spring Tide it makes for a potentially dangerous set of conditions out at sea as well as on beaches.

NSRI urge caution around water in Western Cape

The NSRI reiterated basic safety precautions when swimming in the ocean and urged bathers only to swim where a lifeguard is on active duty. Swimmers should be aware that strong rip currents will be in effect this weekend.

“NSRI urges public caution around the coastline this weekend following an SA Weather Service alert forecasting adverse weather around the Western Cape coastline with storm conditions, strong winds, heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions late Saturday and into Sunday.

“The New moon Spring tide will compound rough sea conditions brought on by the storm conditions along the Western Cape Coastline.

“The New Moon Spring Tide peaks on Saturday, 28 September and the NSRI urges public caution around the coast with the Spring Tide bringing higher than normal high tides and lower than normal low tides which will prevail into the new week.

“Strong rip currents will prevail around the coastline and we urge public at all times to swim at beaches protected by lifeguards and swim between the lifeguards red and yellow flags.”

The rip tides also effects the flow of rivers near a coastal river mouth and the NSRI have warned against crossing flooded waterways and swimming in rivers near the coast.

NSRI issues warnings to anglers

Fishers along the coast are urged to remain aware of their surroundings, and rock anglers are encouraged to wear a life jacket at all times.

“We strongly advise against crossing flooding rivers or swimming in rivers near to a coastal river mouth.

“We urge parents to ensure that their children have responsible adult supervision in or around water.

Watch the weather

“We encourage the public to follow the SA Weather Service forecasts and monitor their alerts and changes in weather forecasts over the next 48 hours.

“Boaters, sailboarders and paddlers should wear their life-jackets when on their craft.

“Anglers fishing along the shoreline should be cautious at all times and particularly during the Spring Tide. Rock anglers should wear lifejackets.

“Caution is advised during this Spring Tide period as the storm will bring strong winds and rough sea conditions as forecast around the Western Cape coastline this weekend.”