NSRI warns of rip currents as new moon sets in
The National Sea Rescue Institute cautioned beachgoers to exercise extreme caution this week as strong rip tides are being experienced along the South African coastline.
The sea rescue volunteer organisation’s spokesman Craig Lambinon said the monthly new moon was expected to occur at 08:53 on Thursday morning, bringing with it dangers for bathers.
“Spring Tides happen twice every month, at full moon and at new moon, and bring higher than normal high tides, lower than normal low tides and stronger than normal rip currents around the coastline. There are two high tides and two low tides every day,” said Lambinon.
On Monday, twelve bathers had to be rescued at Second Beach in the luxury beachfront area of Clifton after rip currents swept them out to sea. At least two men had to be transported to hospital for treatment.
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The NSRI said the rip currents were expected to intensify from Wednesday and would last until January 2.
“NSRI are urging bathers, paddlers and anglers to be aware of this year’s end of the year ‘New Moon Spring Tide’ happening at a time when most families will be visiting the beach (coastline) and extreme caution around the coast is advised,” said Lambinon.
“Go to beaches only where and when lifeguards are on duty and swim between the safe demarcated swimming zones that lifeguards post at beaches using their red and yellow flags.