Beachgoers, anglers and coastal hikers are being urged to take extra care this weekend as a strong spring tide coincides with the school holidays and Heritage Day long weekend, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Aerial view of Camps Bay Beach, Cape Town, showcasing the scenic coastline and iconic Twelve Apostles mountains / Taryn Elliott / Pexels
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is warning people heading to the coast to plan around the tides, with the strongest spring tides expected from Saturday, 26 September, to Tuesday, 29 September.
The full moon occurs at 18:48 on Saturday, with the biggest tidal ranges usually arriving a day or two afterwards.
The spring tide also follows on the 23 September equinox, when spring tides tend to be among the strongest of the year.
Spring tides occur when the sun, moon and Earth align, strengthening the pull on the ocean. Their effects can last for several days.
‘With families heading to the coast for the holidays, we are asking everyone to plan around the tides this week,’ said Andrew Ingram, NSRI Communications Manager.
‘Check the tide times where you are, swim at lifeguard-protected beaches, and if you are fishing from rocks, wear a life jacket and be sure to have flotation with you. If you see someone in trouble, call for help immediately.’
What to expect from the spring tide
The spring tide will bring a greater difference between high and low tide than usual.
This means:
- Higher high tides: Water will reach further up the shore than usual.
- Lower low tides: More of the seabed and rocks will be exposed.
- A bigger tidal range: The difference between high and low tide will be at its greatest.
These conditions can create additional hazards for people swimming, fishing or hiking along the coast.
Stronger currents among the risks
The NSRI warns that stronger tidal flows can make rip currents more powerful, increasing the risk to swimmers.
Strong tidal currents can also occur around estuary mouths, harbour entrances and narrow inlets, such as the Knysna Heads.
Coastal paths and hiking trails may also become dangerous or be cut off at high tide, while rock anglers could find waves reaching areas that are usually considered safe.
How to stay safe at the coast
The NSRI is advising swimmers to use lifeguard-protected beaches and remain between the lifeguards’ flags.
Beachgoers should take particular care on the outgoing tide, when rip currents are often at their strongest.
The NSRI also recommends checking the South African Weather Service forecast and local tide tables before heading out.
Those planning coastal hikes should plan their routes around local high tide times and avoid trails that could become cut off.
For rock anglers, the NSRI recommends keeping a safe distance from the water’s edge, wearing a life jacket and carrying something that floats and can be thrown to someone in the water. An empty five-litre plastic bottle with a rope attached can be used for this purpose.
Boaters and paddlers should wear life jackets, carry essential safety equipment and keep their cellphone charged in a waterproof pouch.
Remember these water safety basics
The NSRI is also reminding the public not to drink alcohol before swimming, boating or fishing and to ensure that a responsible adult is always watching children in and around the water.
People should take care around rivers, dams and lakes, particularly after rain when water can run fast and deep.
Strong winds and changing weather should also be taken into account when planning coastal activities.
In an emergency, contact the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre on 087 094 9774, or dial 112 from a cellphone.
Originally published via Cape {town} Etc
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