People intending to go out swimming, boating or rock fishing along the Illawarra coast are warned that surf conditions are likely to be dangerous in the coming days.
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The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a hazardous surf warning for the region for Thursday.
NSW Police Force's Marine Area Command says people should rethink entering the water, and avoid walking near surf-exposed areas.
Rock fishers should avoid rock platforms exposed to the ocean and instead seek a sheltered location, while boaters planning to cross shallow water and ocean bars should consider changing or delaying their plans.
Surf Life Saving NSW director of lifesaving Joel Wiseman said conditions would deteriorate further in the coming days.
"Given the conditions we are currently experiencing in the Northern Rivers and what we are expecting to develop off the coast, I would strongly urge people to understand their limitations and avoid taking unnecessary risks in the water," Mr Wiseman said.
"Big swell can hamper our efforts to respond to people in distress, so it's important to consider your options so you don't put our volunteers in harms way."
SLS NSW's BeachSafe website provides information on what beaches are patrolled and whether they are open.
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