New moon spring tide alert for New Year’s Eve

Coastal communities and beachgoers should practice extreme caution during the upcoming new moon spring tide, forecast to peak on New Year’s Eve.

It is a natural phenomenon when the sun, moon and earth align during the new moon phase, which impacts tidal conditions.

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According to the NSRI, here is what you could expect:
• Higher High Tides: Water levels will rise significantly, reaching further up the shoreline

• Lower Low Tides: More of the seabed will be exposed as water levels dip below average

• Increased Tidal Range: The difference between high and low tide levels will be at its maximum

Possible impacts and hazards include rip currents and stronger tidal currents, particularly in narrow inlets, coastal hiking hazards and fishing precautions.

In a bid to help residents and tourists stay safe while enjoying their time in the sun, the NSRI urges people to swim at lifeguard-protected beaches only, stay vigilant and beware of rip currents.

Knowledge is power so it is important to stay informed and check daily weather forecasts because spring tides are known to last several days.

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When embarking on coastal activities it is important to:
• Plan your hikes carefully, avoiding trails that may be cut off during high tide

• Shoreline anglers should maintain a safe distance from the water. When fishing from rocks or cliffs, they should wear a life jacket and carry flotation equipment (for example, a 2L cooldrink container with a rope attached) that can be thrown to someone in the water

• When going out on a boat or paddling, always wear life jackets, carry essential safety equipment, and keep your cellphone fully charged in a waterproof pouch. The free NSRI SafeTrx smartphone app allows you to log your trip and call the NSRI for help quickly and easily

While it is nice to enjoy a drink or two on your day off, it is important to remember that drinking and driving or swimming can become a deadly activity.

Parents are urged to keep a close eye on their little ones at all times.

Rivers, lakes and dams can be affected by the tide so avoid them during heavy rainfall.

If possible, place all coastal activities on hold until the new moon spring tide passes, or stay informed and remember to proceed with caution and save emergency number 112 on your cellphone.

Tide times and heights
Durban:
1 January 2025:
• High Tide: 4:39am (1.88 meters)
• Low Tide: 10:42am (0.40 meters)
• High Tide: 4:47pm (1.90 meters)
• Low Tide: 11:01pm (0.26 meters)

Cape Town:
1 January 2025:
• High Tide: 04:11am (1.73 m)
• Low Tide: 10:14am (0.49 m)
• High Tide: 04:17pm (1.71 m)
• Low Tide: 10:29pm (0.36 m)

Port Nolloth:
1 January 2025:
• High Tide: 4:07am (1.77 meters)
• Low Tide: 10:07am (0.40 meters)
• High Tide: 4:16pm (1.77 meters)
• Low Tide: 10:26pm (0.30 meters)
For more information or updates and emergency assistance, visit www.nsri.org.za

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