Most beaches along the New South Wales (NSW) coast were closed due to dangerous wave conditions on Saturday. Surf Life Saving Australia reported that big swells created risks for swimming, rock fishing, and boating.
At Cronulla Beach Rock Pool, Patch May, who visited from Vancouver, described the waves as “very gnarly.” Despite holding onto a safety rope, he and his brother Mikey got knocked off their feet by massive waves. “It was an absolute washing machine,” Patch said, expressing their shock at the wild conditions.
According to the Beachsafe app, many popular spots including Newcastle, Bronte, and Coogee were among the closed beaches. Surfline’s live cameras showed waves reaching an average height of two meters, double what they were in the weeks prior. Most beaches appeared chaotic and dangerous.
Bill, a Newcastle surfer, commented, “It is a very lumpy, strong, and stormy swell. It looks powerful but isn’t good for surfing.”
Beach scientist Andrew Short explained to the Herald that these big waves could reshape the beaches, which have seen smaller waves for much of the summer, leading to a so-called “wave drought.” The current swell offers a chance for more consistent surf in the future.
Social media has seen a surge in discussions about safety at the beach, with many urging caution among visitors unaware of the risks. NSW Police also advised beachgoers to stay out of the water and avoid coastal areas prone to large waves.
The Bureau of Meteorology warned of severe thunderstorms, expecting heavy rainfall that could lead to flash flooding in some regions. Sydney faced the potential for 30mm to 100mm of rain, alongside gusty winds, complicating the weather conditions further.
On Saturday, locals reported heavy downpours in various areas, including Parramatta. With such unpredictable weather, it’s a stark reminder for beach enthusiasts to stay updated, prioritize safety, and respect nature’s power.
