With 15-20 knot southerly winds predicted over the next 24 hours, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Hazardous Surf Warning for beachgoers heading to the coast this week.

Surf Life Saving NSW is urging the public, particularly those using the school holiday period to visit the coast, to exercise caution.

Consistent high tides of between 1.5 and 1.7 metres are expected, with a peak of 3.5 metres overnight.

It is anticipated that this will be felt most between the Far North Coast and the Northern Beaches, impacting open and exposed beaches and headlands.

SLSNSW Director of Lifesaving Joel Wiseman is urging the public to be mindful of the conditions if they are visiting the coast.

“School holidays have started across the state, and we anticipate an increase in the number of people visiting our coastline,” he said.

“Given the conditions we are expecting, I would strongly urge people to understand their limitations and avoid taking unnecessary risks in the water.

“Our lifesavers returned to the beach this weekend and many lifeguard services have also commenced, however during the holidays not all beaches are patrolled by lifeguards of lifesavers.

“I would encourage you to check BeachSafe if you do decide to take to the water.”

Surf Life Saving NSW raised the flags at beaches across the state to signal the beginning of the season on Saturday, and club call-out teams, Duty Officers and surf rescue assets are on standby to respond to critical coastal incidents.

HAZARDOUS SURF CONDITIONS SAFETY TIPS

  • Avoid rock fishing and water activities on exposed beaches/rock-shelves
  • Only swim at patrolled beaches, between the red and yellow flags. See the Beachsafe Website for patrolled locations/times
  • Check the official Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecast before undertaking rock fishing and water activities
  • Boaties should seek advice from Marine Rescue NSW and always wear a lifejacket
  • If witnessing an in-water emergency dial Triple Zero (000) – Police.

Monday 20 September 2021