Lauren Isaacs23 September 2024 | 11:58

South Africans & tourists urged to heed weather warnings, be cautious around water

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRi), police and emergency services officials are appealing to South Africans and tourists, to practice caution around water.

South Africans & tourists urged to heed weather warnings, be cautious around water

NSRI rescue boat. Picture: X/@NSRI

CAPE TOWN - The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRi), police and emergency services officials are appealing to South Africans and tourists, to practice caution around water.
 
The comes as weather conditions are starting to improve in some parts of the country and schools have closed their doors for the holiday.
 
Members of the commercial maritime industry and recreational boaters, paddlers and sailors are also being urged to take extra care.
 
The NSRI's Craig Lambinon: "We are appealing to the public to follow SAWS (South African Weather Services) forecast weather updates and adhere to SAWS weather warnings. In places, rough sea conditions prevail around the coastline with storm seas deep sea bringing hazardous conditions to parts of the coastline."
 
Lambinon has warned that the recent heavy snowfalls in some parts of the country may result in rising water levels.
 
"Do not cross through flooded roadways or cross bridges over riverways that are submerged by swollen rivers. Parents and carers must ensure children have responsible adult supervision in and around water. Swimming pools should be cloaked in safety."