The Full Moon combined with Spring Tide will see higher high tides and lower low tides twice a day so the NSRI have issued a safety warning for beachgoers.
South Africa (15 November 2024) – If you have your heart set on being at the beach this weekend, be sure to pay attention to the tides, as the full moon and a spring tide will be affecting beach currents and making things a little more dangerous. The NSRI has issued a safety alert so that beachgoers can stay safe and be aware.
The NSRI, lifeguards, the Police, and emergency services are appealing to bathers, boaters, paddlers, sailors, shoreline anglers, and coastal hikers to be cautious around the coastline as the full moon Spring tide peaks today, November 15th. This causes the two daily high tides to be higher than normal and the two daily low tides to be lower than normal, which will be present throughout this weekend and into the new week.
Spring tides may cause stronger-than-normal sea currents, which can pose a potential hazard to bathers around the coastline, especially during the outgoing tide.
“We are appealing to coastal water users to be cautious during this full moon Spring tide phase today, and over this weekend, be aware of the affect that Spring tide has on the coastal shoreline and on sea currents.”
These are the tips to follow if heading to the beach this weekend:
- Swim at beaches protected by lifeguards.
- Coastal hikers be aware of coastal hiking trails that can be cut off during the high tide and shoreline anglers be aware of fishing spots that may be engulfed by waves during the high tide.
- Inland water users are also urged to be cautious bathing, boating and paddling on rivers, lakes and dams.
- Follow the SA Weather Service (SAWS) daily forecasts and around the coast follow daily tide time tables.
- Be aware of adverse weather, strong winds, fast-flowing rivers, sea currents and sea drifts.
- Boaters, paddlers, and sailors, we are appealing to you to wear life jackets when your craft is underway, have your safety equipment at the ready, and download and use the free NSRI SafeTrx smartphone app.
“We appeal to parents to ensure your children have responsible adult supervision in and around water.
To everyone, we are appealing to you to be safety cautious in and around water – Lets keep each other safe.”
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