Daily beach report
North Coast Lifeguard co-ordinator Stephen Leahy’s daily beach report:
The many deep gutters that have developed over the last week along our popular beaches have resulted in some strong side currents and rips. As the tide continued to come in, the channels became deeper, resulting in dangerous conditions for swimmers. Like yesterday, the winds picked up mid-afternoon, making the waves pretty choppy. Here’s what happened on lifeguard patrolled beaches in Ballina Shire today:
Lennox Head: The strong northerly winds ensured only a small number of swimmers today; nevertheless 13 preventative actions were undertaken. Lifeguard Anthony was placed on standby on two occasions after lunch to assist kite-surfers who appeared to be in trouble but they were able to return to shore without any further assistance.
Shelly Beach, Ballina: Lifeguard Ruben closed Shelly Beach at 11.15am after the conditions became dangerous. It remained closed for the rest of the day. Deep gutters and powerful rips were found along the full length of the beach. Early in the morning at least 12 swimmers were cautioned about swimming in rips outside the flags.
Tomorrow’s Forecast: Cloud increasing with isolated showers developing later in the day, and the chance of late thunderstorms. Light to moderate north to north-west winds, tending fresh north-easterly near the coast in the afternoon.
Today’s Water Safety Tip: Signs are provided to warn swimmers about dangers in the surf such as high waves, rips, sandbanks and marine stingers. Swimmers should heed these signs and any advice provided to them by lifeguards as it is for your own safety. Doing so will ensure a fun day at the beach.
