Rip current forcasting model developed ahead of festive season

New rip current forecasting model

The South African Weather Service has created a new rip current forecasting model to help predict dangerous sea conditions at six beaches in the Cape Peninsula.

According to Cape Town Etc, the rip current forecast system will help increase public safety, as the system will provide daily indications of when rip currents are likely to arise.

The system will be launched ahead of the peak festive season this year and once in effect, it will be made accessible to the public through the SAWS Marine Portal.

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has further welcomed this development.

“This new rip current hazard forecast model is an absolutely magnificent tool for beach safety around the peninsula and the City of Cape Town. I think over this season it will really help to plan how we distribute our resources and on which days we need to be more vigilant than other days” Andrew Ingram, spokesperson for the NSRI said as per Cape Town Etc.

The system will issue alerts when currents are stronger than usual and the public may be warned ahead of time.

The beaches which have been selected for the forcaster include:

• Blouberg Beach,
• Milnerton Beach,
• Fish Hoek Beach,
• Monwabisi Beach,
• Strand Beach, and
• Kogel Bay Beach.

These locations were reportedly selected because of the high number of rip current incidents which were recorded in the areas whilst the model was being developed.

Best practices to stay safe when swimming

• Always check local surf and weather reports before entering the water.
• Always choose beaches with lifeguards present. Lifeguard-supervised areas significantly reduce the risk of drowning.
• Pay attention to warning flags or signs posted by lifeguards.
• When in doubt, consult with lifeguards about water conditions.
• Take time to learn about rip currents, their behaviour, and how to escape them. Awareness is your first line of defense.