A low pressure system spinning off the coast will drive dangerous surf onto Illawarra beaches during Wednesday, with seas likely to reach four metres during the afternoon.
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The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a hazardous surf alert for the Illawarra, Batemans and Eden coasts, with beachgoers warned against rock fishing, boating and swimming.
The peak of the dangerous surf conditions is expected to coincide with high tide on Wednesday evening, although the warning will remain in place on Thursday.
On Wednesday morning, Port Kembla and Warilla are closed. All other Illawarra beaches remain open, at this stage.
The forecast for Illawarra coastal waters, between Port Hacking and Ulladulla, is that seas of 2 to 3 metres will increase to 3 to 4 metres offshore south of Port Kembla on Wednesday.
A southerly swell of 2 to 3 metres will reach 3 to 4 metres during the afternoon.
The bureau said the hazardous conditions are due to a slow-moving low pressure system that is deepening in the Tasman Sea.
“In combination with a high developing over the bight, this will maintain fresh to strong south to southwesterly winds and powerful surf conditions over southern and central waters for the next couple of days,” the bureau said.
Coastal winds are forecast to strengthen and could impact the size and direction of the swell.
A gale wind warning is current for the Illawarra, Batemans and Eden coasts on Wednesday.
Surf Life Saving NSW has warned rock fishers to be aware of the changing conditions with a swell period of between 11 and 12 seconds expected.
SAFETY ADVICE
- People should consider staying out of the water and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas.
- Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean and seek a safe location that is sheltered from the surf.
- Boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their voyage.
- Boaters already on the water should carry the appropriate safety equipment and wear a lifejacket.
- Boaters should remember to log on with their local Marine Rescue radio base, via VHF Radio or the Marine Rescue APP, and consider their safety management plan.
Andrew Pearson
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
