Surfers will be welcoming a bump in the swell combined with lighter winds this weekend, while beachgoers will have to dodge some showers.
We’ve had around 1m of swell in the past few days and it’s predicted to rise to 1.5m, about 3-5 ft.
The beach breaks from Dicky Beach to Wurtulla and the Alexandra Headland to Maroochydore stretch should be popular with boardriders, as well as the points at Moffat and Alex. Southerly winds should remain under 10 knots and be offshore early to mid-morning Sunday, which looks like offering the best conditions.
Most beaches should be an attractive option if you are looking for a dip, with Sunday looking less likely to attract any showers. It is also predicted to be much warmer with a top of 32C – 6C up on Saturday’s maximum.
High tides are around early-to mid-afternoon so late morning is probably the best time for a swim while the tide is still coming in.
As the tides run out later in the afternoon, there will be more rips prevalent across the Coast. UV is once again expected to be the extreme range so make sure you bring the sunscreen.
Of course, only swim between the red and yellow flags and follow the advice of lifeguards and lifesavers.
Mooloolaba Beach will once again play host to the Sunshine Coast Surf Life Saving Youth Championships.
This Sunday will see our Under 13-15 members competing in water-based events that were postponed due to the big swell a few weeks ago.
With the State Championships only a few weeks away it will be a great hit-out for all the competitors and we wish them well.
Aaron Purchase is Surf Life Saving Queensland’s regional manager for the Sunshine Coast. His column in sunshinecoastnews.com.au appears each Friday to keep the community informed of what’s happening on the beach and how to stay safe in the water.
