Cape Town: The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has released a safety advisory requesting travellers, visitors, holidaymakers and beachgoers to practice caution, during the final days of the school holidays as spring tides are occurring soon.
Reportedly, the advisory was issued by the NSRI due to the upcoming full moon spring tide which is set to peak on Wednesday, Jan 15, 2025 and coinciding with return of many Western Cape Schools.
NSRI advisory explained the natural phenomenon and stated, “The spring tide occurring on Jan 15, 2025 coincides with the full moon on Jan 14, 2025, which significantly impacting the tidal conditions during the last days of the school holidays.”
“This natural phenomenon occurred when the sun, moon and earth align together during the full moon phase and amplifies the gravitational pull, on oceans of the planet earth,” said NSRI.
During the full moon spring tide, the city Cape Town will observe different range and level of tides, at different times. Higher High Tides will be observed as water levels will rise significantly and will reach further up the shoreline.
The region and nearby areas will also observe Lower Low Tides when more of the seabed will be exposed as water levels will dip below average. The city people will see Increased Tidal Range and will observe the difference between high and low tide levels that will be at its maximum.
Hazardous impacts of the full moon spring tide might also be recorded if precautions are not taken. Full Moon Spring Tides often result in stronger tidal currents, especially in narrow inlets. The natural phenomenon can bring potential dangers such as Rip currents, which are intensified stronger tidal flows posing a risk to swimmers.
The tidal phenomenon might also lead to coastal hiking hazards as some hiking trails near the Cape Town coast will be inaccessible or hazardous during the times of high tide. Fishing precautions should be on priority for shoreline anglers and should exercise extra caution as higher waves may cross usual safe zones.
Additional precautions should also be taken by the residents and visitors. They should schedule their activities accordingly and stay cautious during the tidal changes. Particularly, when high tide recedes to low tide for beach visitors or swimmers and on the incoming tide for rock anglers.
People of Cape Town should stay informed and follow the local safety alerts and warnings issued by the authorities. Also save the emergency number 112 on cell phones, needed in case. Water users are advised that the effects of spring tides may last for several days.
“So, adhere by the safety measures, and minimise the risks. Enjoy the natural beauty of the ocean responsibly,” concluded safety advisory NSRI.