The National Sea Rescue Institute is urging the public to be cautious along the coast this weekend, after a full moon spring tide peak. The alignment of the sun, moon and Earth during the full moon phase increases the gravitational pull on the oceans, which leads to higher-than-normal high tides and lower-than-normal low tides.
This increased tidal range can create stronger currents, particularly in narrow inlets, and may result in more powerful rip currents that pose dangers to swimmers. Some coastal hiking routes may also become unsafe or inaccessible during high tide, and shoreline anglers are urged to be especially careful as waves may reach further up rocks and beaches than usual.
Beachgoers are advised to swim only at beaches where lifeguards are on duty, and always between the designated flags. The NSRI also encourages the public to check daily weather updates from the South African Weather Service and to consult tide timetables before heading out.
Hikers are urged to avoid trails that may be cut off by rising tides, while anglers should remain well back from the water and wear life jackets when fishing from rocks or cliffs. They are encouraged to carry basic flotation devices that can be thrown to someone in trouble.
Boaters and paddlers should ensure they wear life jackets, carry safety gear and keep mobile phones fully charged in waterproof pouches. The NSRI SafeTrx app can also be used to log trips and request assistance quickly.
The public is further reminded to avoid alcohol when taking part in any water-related activities, to supervise children closely, and to be cautious around rivers, lakes and dams—especially after heavy rain or when conditions are windy.
The NSRI says spring tide effects can last several days, and encourages people to stay aware of changing tidal conditions, follow local safety alerts and exercise caution during both incoming and outgoing tides.
For emergency assistance, call 112 from your cellphone.
This increased tidal range can create stronger currents, particularly in narrow inlets, and may result in more powerful rip currents that pose dangers to swimmers. Some coastal hiking routes may also become unsafe or inaccessible during high tide, and shoreline anglers are urged to be especially careful as waves may reach further up rocks and beaches than usual.
Beachgoers are advised to swim only at beaches where lifeguards are on duty, and always between the designated flags. The NSRI also encourages the public to check daily weather updates from the South African Weather Service and to consult tide timetables before heading out.
Hikers are urged to avoid trails that may be cut off by rising tides, while anglers should remain well back from the water and wear life jackets when fishing from rocks or cliffs. They are encouraged to carry basic flotation devices that can be thrown to someone in trouble.
Boaters and paddlers should ensure they wear life jackets, carry safety gear and keep mobile phones fully charged in waterproof pouches. The NSRI SafeTrx app can also be used to log trips and request assistance quickly.
The public is further reminded to avoid alcohol when taking part in any water-related activities, to supervise children closely, and to be cautious around rivers, lakes and dams—especially after heavy rain or when conditions are windy.
The NSRI says spring tide effects can last several days, and encourages people to stay aware of changing tidal conditions, follow local safety alerts and exercise caution during both incoming and outgoing tides.
For emergency assistance, call 112 from your cellphone.