BEACHGOERS have been warned to exercise extreme caution with king tides and the remnants of ex-tropical cyclone Seth battering the east coast.
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The Bureau of Meteorology said ex-tropical cyclone Seth is currently located over the southern Coral Sea.
"This system is forecast to adopt a west to northwesterly track, approaching the Queensland coast during the first half of the week. This system is generating increasing seas and swell, which will coincide with an astronomical peak in high tides over the coming days," a spokesperson said.
Abnormally high tides, which may cause sea water flooding of low lying areas, are possible for coastal areas.
Water levels could reach or exceed the highest tide of the year by at least 0.1 metres during the morning's high tide on Monday, Tuesday and possibly Wednesday mornings.
The Bureau said an increasing easterly swell is combining with strong to gale force winds to generate deep water wave heights at or above five metres in northern waters.
"This is likely to continue generating damaging surf conditions along the exposed southeast coast until Tuesday, and in conjunction with abnormally high tides could lead to coastal erosion, particularly for east facing zones," the BoM said.
A hazardous surf warning is current.
NSW Police Force, Marine Area Command advise that:
- 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.
The south coast has experienced a run of hot, dry conditions due to a low intensity heatwave.
Surf Life Saving NSW Director of Lifesaving, Joel Wiseman said there was a pent up desire to get out and enjoy the outdoors after a year of lockdowns.
"Many people are moving around the state and visiting coastal holiday spots that they may not be familiar with. It's a high risk time and we implore everyone to heed surf safety advice and amend their activities to suit the conditions."
BEACH SAFETY TIPS
- Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags, for your nearest patrolled beach check the BeachSafe app or website
- Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for safety information
- Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other, and always supervise children around the water
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm
- In an emergency, dial Triple Zero