Key Takeaways:
- Large waves caused dangerous conditions for swimming, rock fishing, and boating along the NSW coast, leading to the closure of most beaches.
- The waves were twice as high as usual, averaging two meters, and were characterized as a "big mess of whitewash".
- Beaches affected by the rough conditions included Newcastle, Bronte, Tamarama, Coogee, Cronulla, and Maroubra.
- The rough seas are expected to reshape the beaches, leading to more consistent surf conditions after a period of small waves.
- Beachgoers are advised to exercise caution and stay out of the water if they are unfamiliar with the beach or lack water safety skills.
Introduction to the Rough Seas
The New South Wales coast experienced rough seas on Saturday, with large waves causing dangerous conditions for swimming, rock fishing, and boating. As a result, most beaches along the coast were closed, including popular spots such as Newcastle, Bronte, Tamarama, Coogee, Cronulla, and Maroubra. The conditions were so severe that even experienced beachgoers were caught off guard, with actor Patch May describing the scene at Cronulla Beach Rock Pool as "very gnarly". May, who was visiting the spot with his brother Mikey, said that despite holding on to a wire rope barrier, they were still knocked off by a couple of big waves, creating an "absolute washing machine" effect.
Eyewitness Accounts
Patch May, 33, and his brother Mikey, 31, grew up in Cronulla and have a deep understanding of the beach and its conditions. The brothers, who were visiting the rock pool on Saturday, suggested that anyone unfamiliar with the beach and lacking water safety skills should stay out of the water. Their warning is echoed by Surf Life Saving Australia’s Beachsafe app, which reported that most beaches on the NSW coast were closed due to the rough conditions. The app provides vital information for beachgoers, helping them to make informed decisions about their safety. The brothers’ experience at the rock pool was just one example of the hazardous conditions that existed along the coast, with many other beaches experiencing similar waves and strong currents.
Weather Conditions
The rough seas were caused by a strong and stormy swell that was characterized as "very lumpy" by a surfer in Newcastle. The surfer, who did not provide his last name, said that the conditions were not good for surfing, despite the large waves. The swell was so powerful that it was expected to reshape the beaches, leading to more consistent surf conditions after a period dominated by small waves breaking on shore. According to beach scientist Andrew Short, the "wave drought" this summer had been interrupted only occasionally and briefly, making the rough seas a welcome change for some beachgoers. However, the conditions were also a reminder of the importance of exercising caution when visiting the beach, particularly during periods of rough seas.
Impact on Beaches
The rough seas had a significant impact on the beaches along the NSW coast, with many experiencing erosion and changes to their shape. The large waves and strong currents caused significant damage to the shoreline, with rocks and debris being washed away. The changes to the beaches will likely have a lasting impact on the coastline, with some areas experiencing significant erosion and others accumulating sand and sediment. The reshaping of the beaches will also affect the surf conditions, with some areas becoming more popular with surfers and others becoming less accessible. The changes will also have an impact on the local ecosystem, with some species being affected by the changes to their habitat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rough seas that affected the NSW coast on Saturday were a reminder of the power and unpredictability of the ocean. The large waves and strong currents caused hazardous conditions for swimming, rock fishing, and boating, leading to the closure of most beaches. The conditions were characterized as "very lumpy" and "stormy", with some areas experiencing significant erosion and changes to their shape. The rough seas will have a lasting impact on the coastline, with some areas becoming more popular with surfers and others becoming less accessible. As the beaches continue to evolve, it is essential for beachgoers to exercise caution and stay informed about the conditions, particularly during periods of rough seas. By doing so, they can enjoy the beauty and power of the ocean while minimizing their risk of injury or accident.
