A massive swell batters Austinmer. Photo: Angela Gilmour.
Massive swells have hammered the Illawarra coast over the past 24 hours, with more to come.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a hazardous surf warning for the region on Wedesday (2 April), with conditions to be reevaluated at 5 pm to determine if the warning period should be extended through until later in the week.
Emergency services and local councils have urged everyone to stay away from the water as swells of three metres and more roll in.
The warning is specifically targeted at rock fishers, boaters, and swimmers.
All patrolled beaches in the region are closed.
Kiama Council has urged residents to keep clear of waterfront footpaths and parks as massive waves sweep debris onshore, with the potential to drag an unsuspecting passerby back out with them.
Coronation Park in particular has experienced significant water ingress and puddles in the park, with several footpaths under water already.
“Please remain a safe distance back from the shoreline and do not drive, walk or cycle through floodwaters,” a Kiama Council spokesperson said.
“Parents and guardians are advised not to allow children to approach the shoreline or play in parks near water as conditions are potentially hazardous, the tide is still coming in, and large waves continue to wash over the beaches and into shoreline areas.
“Hazardous conditions are also occurring at Kiama’s other shoreline areas, our beaches and waterways including Jones, Bombo, Surf Beach, Kendalls, Easts, Werri and Seven Mile, the Minnamurra River, Crooked River and other watercourses.”
The life-threatening conditions – and sewerage runoff – haven’t been enough to deter some surfers and bodyboarders however.
Boardriders have taken to the water at Sandon Point and MM Beach at Port Kembla, hoping to score mammoth waves.
Some were lucky to leave the water alive. A rescue helicopter had to rescue two teens from the swell off Fishermans Beach in Port Kembla on Tuesday (1 April).
For emergency assistance, please contact the SES on 132 500.
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