Beachgoers urged to exercise caution
Cylone Dikeledi's approach along the eastern seaboard has led Lifesaving South Africa to urge beachgoers to exercise caution along the coast.
CONDITIONS along the Eastern seaboard are expected to worsen due to the effects of Cyclone Dikeledi. According to an alert by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), the cyclone is located 604km east of Mozambique and has tracked west-south-westward at 24km/h.
Also read: Lifesavers thanked for drown-free holidays at beaches
The South African Weather Service confirmed in a recent update that the cyclone is not expected to affect South Africa. It is, however, expected to strengthen into a tropical cyclone by today (January 13). Currently, it boasts winds averaging between 90-100km/h.
Lifesaving South Africa (LSA) president, Dhaya Sewduth, urges beach users to exercise extra caution along the coastline during the course of the coming week.
“With an expected swell surge down the Mozambican channel, coupled with Spring Tides forming full moon by January 15, the surf conditions are expected to be quite hectic. Bathers should check whether beaches are open for swimming or only swim when lifeguards are on duty,” said Sewduth.
According to the United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Dikeledi’s path is expected to affect upwards of 45 000 people.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
