SAWS warns of damaging waves, but is low tide any safer?

Low tide may expose more of the beach, but it does not always mean the sea is safe for swimming, fishing or other coastal activities.

Strong winds, large waves and powerful currents can still create dangerous conditions, even when the water level drops.

SAWS issued a warning of damaging winds and waves

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for damaging winds and waves along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline.

Conditions could temporarily disrupt beachfront activities, small harbours and ports until Tuesday morning

The warning could pose a risk to coastal activities, particularly for swimmers, anglers and people using small boats.

Tides control the rise and fall of sea levels, but they do not determine how powerful waves will be.

These waves can remain large and powerful during low tide.

The shape of the seabed and coastline also influences how waves break and where strong currents develop.

What about rip currents?

Rip currents are strong, narrow, seaward flows of water that extend from close to the shoreline to outside of the surf zone.

They are found on almost any beach with breaking waves and act as “rivers of the sea,” moving sand, marine organisms, and other material offshore

A rip current can pull swimmers away from shallow water, even when the sea appears calm nearby.

People caught in a rip current should avoid swimming directly against it rather they should try to remain calm.

How can beachgoers stay safe?

Check the latest weather forecasts, marine warnings and tide times before visiting the coast.

Swim at beaches where lifeguards are on duty and follow their instructions.

Knowing the tide times helps with planning, but checking the wind, waves and local conditions is just as important.