The NSRI and the emergency services are appealing to bathers, boaters, paddlers, sailors, shoreline anglers, and coastal hikers to be cautious around the coastline as the new moon Spring tide peaks today, July 5.
Peaking early on Saturday morning, July 6, the daily two high tides will be higher than normal, and the daily two low tides will be lower than normal, and this effect will last into the new week.
According to a National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) media statement, the concern is that during this, the final weekend of school holidays, the coastline will be experiencing the new moon Spring tide during a time when sea conditions are naturally rougher than normal because of winter storms and cold fronts passing over parts of the coastline and deep sea off the South African coastline, and where rip currents may be stronger than normal around the coastline.
“This new moon Spring tide peaks on Saturday, July 6, just after midnight,” the statement read.
“The effect that Spring tide has on the coast, causing the two daily high tides to be higher than normal and the two daily low tides to be lower than normal, will be strongest today and over the remainder of this weekend and then gradually declining in intensity towards the middle and towards the end of next week,” the statement explained.
The statement warned that Spring tides pose a potential hazard to bathers around the coastline at all times but are noticeably more dangerous during the outgoing tide.
“We are urgently appealing to coastal water users to be cautious during this new moon Spring tide phase and the effect Spring tide has around the coast over this weekend.
“Be aware of coastal hiking trails that can be cut off during high tide. Anglers fishing along the shoreline are urged to keep a safe distance away from the shoreline. Be aware of adverse weather, strong winds, fast flowing rivers and sea currents and drifts.
“Do not drive through flooded roadways or cross bridges affected by flooding rivers.
“Boaters, paddlers and sailors, we are appealing to you to wear lifejackets when your craft are underway, carry safety equipment and download and use the free NSRI SafeTrx smartphone app,”the NSRI urged.
Additionally, the NSRI further urged inland water users to be cautious when bathing, boating and paddling in rivers, owing to heavy rainfall is forecasted for places.
“We appeal to parents to ensure your children have responsible adult supervision in and around water,” the statement concluded.
