Police urge residents to avoid water as hazardous surf hits coast

Police are urging the community to stay away from the water as hazardous surf and dangerous swells are expected across the New South Wales coast

The Bureau of Meteorology issued several warnings for the state’s coastline on Thursday 26 March due to concerns regarding strong winds and unpredictable sea conditions.

Marine Area Command detective chief inspector Anthony Brazzill said swells would be unpredictable this weekend and would put anyone entering the water at risk, even those wearing lifejackets.

“We’re urging anyone who planned to head out on the water this weekend to reconsider it,” Detective Chief Inspector Brazzill said.

The warnings for Thursday cover the Byron, Coffs, Macquarie, Hunter, Sydney, Illawarra, Batemans and Eden coasts.Conditions are expected to remain dangerous through Friday for the Hunter, Sydney, Illawarra, Batemans and Eden regions.Authorities have advised the public to avoid all water-based activities and stay well clear of rock platforms or locations exposed to the ocean.

Boaters are being told to delay or cancel their plans and should not attempt to cross coastal bars until the weather improves.Detective Chief Inspector Brazzill said strong winds and powerful surf would put both the public and emergency services at risk.

“While NSW Police Force have high-performance resources including police boats, police divers, PolAir and specialist rescue officers, severe weather will highly likely limit our ability to conduct search and rescue in some instances,” he said.

Officers from the Marine Area Command, which is the branch of the police force responsible for the state’s waterways, requested that people monitor weather updates closely.

“The message is clear,” Detective Chief Inspector Brazzill said.

“Monitor the weather closely and try to stay away from the water this weekend. Our top priority is your safety.”