The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow Level 2 Warning for dangerous sea conditions along the coast from Cape Point to Plettenberg Bay. Waves are expected to reach heights of up to 4.5 metres, posing risks to small boats, beachgoers, and coastal infrastructure.
What the Yellow Level 2 Warning Means
A Yellow Level 2 Warning alerts the public to moderate but potentially disruptive weather, in this case caused by large ocean swells and strong winds. SAWS predicts waves will peak late Tuesday and continue into Wednesday morning. These waves, combined with winds reaching up to 35 knots, will create hazardous conditions along the Southern Cape coast.
According to Candice McKelvey, a marine forecaster at SAWS, the system moving in from the Southern Atlantic will bring rough and potentially damaging seas.
“We’re seeing wave heights of 4 to 4.5 metres in open waters with strong onshore winds, especially near Cape Point,” said McKelvey in an interview with News24 (source).
Areas Under the Yellow Level 2 Warning
The affected stretch includes:
- Cape Point
- Hermanus
- Gansbaai
- Mossel Bay
- Knysna
- Plettenberg Bay
These locations attract tourists year-round, but current conditions will limit beach activity and water sports. Local authorities urge visitors and residents to stay away from the shoreline during the warning period.
Potential Dangers
The Yellow Level 2 Warning highlights several dangers that coastal communities should prepare for:
- Strong waves could capsize small boats.
- Beach erosion and damage to low-lying roads are possible.
- Swimmers, surfers, and fishermen face a high risk of injury.
- Harbours and ports may experience overtopping of waves.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) advises the public to avoid unnecessary travel to the coast and to keep children and pets away from the water.
“These wave conditions can sweep people off rocks or piers. Even experienced fishermen should not risk going out,” said Craig Lambinon, NSRI spokesperson, in a statement to EWN (source).
Why This Is Happening
A deep low-pressure system southwest of Cape Agulhas is driving this wave activity. This weather pattern, common in South African winters, creates large swells and gale-force winds that make the ocean especially dangerous. These systems can build quickly and leave little time for coastal residents to prepare.
How Long the Yellow Level 2 Warning Will Last
SAWS expects sea conditions to begin calming by Wednesday afternoon, but swells may linger along the coast for several more days. The agency recommends that people stay alert and check the SAWS official website (https://www.weathersa.co.za) for updated warnings and weather changes.
What You Should Do
If you live in or plan to visit the affected area, follow these safety tips:
- Avoid beaches, piers, and rock pools.
- Cancel or postpone boating and fishing trips.
- Secure outdoor furniture or equipment near the shoreline.
- Stay indoors if possible during the peak wave period.
- Follow SAWS and NSRI updates through official channels.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
The Yellow Level 2 Warning is a clear signal for everyone along the coast to take precautions. These large waves are not only powerful but also unpredictable. Local emergency services remain on high alert to respond quickly if needed.
Make safety your priority, and avoid risky behaviour near the ocean. Monitor all weather alerts through SAWS, your local municipality, and trusted news sources.
