NSW boaters asked to stay off the water this week
Strong east coast low to create "deteriorating" conditions along Australia's most populated coastlineMaritime NSW is urging boaters not to venture out on the water this week as another low-pressure system - another one of the infamous east coast lows that regularly wreak havoc on the coastline - builds off Australia's most heavily populated stretches of shoreline.
The NSW-based water safety watchdog has asked boaters to take extra care with heavy rain and gale-force winds forecast along the South and Central Coast early this week.
High rainfalls are expected as well, potentially making conditions more dangerous as debris is washed into the ocean.
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“Between 150 to 300 millimetres of rainfall may fall in some areas between Monday and Wednesday accompanied by strong gale force winds,” NSW Maritime acting executive director Alex Barrell said.
"The seas are likely to be very rough and localised flash flooding is expected which may impact the South Coast and will be more severe if the trough moves north to the Central Coast.
“Although it is winter and there are fewer boaters on our waterways, it is school holidays and skippers need to remain vigilant if children are on board.
“Everyone should wear a lifejacket at all times and, if bad weather impacts your trip, skippers should find a well-protected waterway as a plan B, or not head out on the water at all," Barrell said.
High alert
NSW Maritime has advised skippers and owners of small boats to be on high alert and check conditions before considering crossing a coastal bar or heading offshore.
“While conditions are expected to ease by Wednesday, large ocean swells are likely to persist for some days and crossing ocean bars will remain a challenge for navigation,” Barrell said.
“NSW Maritime strongly recommends reconsidering your need to be out on the water in those affected areas over the next few days.”
Under Australian maritime law, the skipper of a boat is responsible for the safety of their boat and everyone on board it.
Pre-trip planning should include:
- Ensuring your boat and its equipment are suitable for the conditions
- Logging on/off with Marine Rescue NSW via marine radio, phone or the smartphone app
- Ensuring you and everyone on board the vessel is wearing a lifejacket at all times, especially during unpredictable conditions
- Ensuring the vessel’s mooring is secure enough to hold in strong winds
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