Visitors to the South African west and south coasts are cautioned to be aware of large swell and strong winds from Wednesday, December 18, persisting until after the weekend.

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This is according to the South African Weather Service, which warned of a series of cold fronts passing south of South Africa generating large swells which will reach the South African coastline from early on Wednesday, December 18.

These swells will peak along the Western Cape’s west coast and Cape Peninsula regions. High wave energy will move eastwards from there, around the Cape south coast and weakening into the southern reaches of the Eastern Cape.

In general, hazardous wave and wind conditions are expected to persist until Monday morning (23^rd December) for most of the Cape west and south coasts.

Care should be taken to avoid a range of possible impacts associated with these sea conditions. Visitors to the coastline are advised to avoid low lying rocky coastlines and beaches experiencing big waves. Beware of long lulls, followed by sudden large waves. There is a chance of waves breaking over coastal walkways and reaching further up the beaches than normal.

Strong winds from the early hours of Wednesday morning (18^th December), combined with large wave heights are likely to make coastal sea conditions rough.

Vessels operating along the South African west, south-west and South Coasts should take care.

Coastal users are encouraged to refer to detailed forecasts for specific areas of interest.

Compiled by SAWS Marine Unit

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