Sea Rescue issues full moon spring tide warning

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has issued an appeal to bathers, boaters, paddlers, sailors, shoreline anglers and coastal hikers to be cautious around the coastline in the coming days.

The warning was issued today (Tuesday) as the full moon spring tide approaches for Thursday.

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This may cause the daily high tides to be higher than normal and the daily low tides to be lower than normal.

The NSRI said the effect spring tide has on the coast is caused by the gravitational pull of the moon on the earth.

Spring tides pose a potential hazard to bathers around the South African coastline, including KwaZulu-Natal, especially during the outgoing tide.

“But at all times we appeal to bathers to be cautious. We are appealing to coastal water users to be cautious during this full moon spring tide phase and the effect that spring tide has on the coastal shoreline,” said NSRI Simonstown station commander Simon McDonnell.

“Be aware of coastal hiking trails that can be cut off during the high tide. Recent rough seas, brought on by the tail end of winter storms and cold fronts may contribute to hazardous conditions around the coastline during this spring tide phase,” said McDonnell.

Moreover, inland water users are also urged to be cautious about bathing, boating and paddling on rivers, lakes and dams.

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