High tides and a brisk south-easterly - Maritime Authority issues warning

wavesRoughThe National Maritime Authority has warned that the Algarve coastline will be hit with a south-easterly bringing high seas over the next few days.

From now until the 28th, ‘levante’ conditions will be poor with the worst turbulence predicted for dawn on the 27th of September, when winds are expected to reach about 56 kmph with two-meter-high waves along the coast – 2.5 metres out to sea.

With yesterday’s full moon bringing high tides, the September 26th high will be 3.7 metres, just after 4pm.

This ‘levante’ phenomenon is normal along the Algarve coast but the Maritime Authority warns beachgoers and those using the sea for sailing, boasting or jet-skiing to follow some life-saving guidelines
 
- Only swim at supervised beaches;
 
- Respect safety signs at beaches, in particular the flag signs, as well as the advice of the Maritime Police
 
- Stay hydrated and avoiding long periods in the sun
 
- Do not hesitate to ask for help when in difficulties, whether at sea or on land
 
- Keep watch over the children especially when at the water’s edge
 
- Always swim parallel to the beach
 
- Don’t swim within three hours of a meal
 
- Don't jump off cliffs or rocks into the water
 
- Do not swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
 
- Respect the danger signs indicating unstable cliffs
 
- Avoid recreational activities or trips when the conditions are unstable or uncomfortable. This includes using stand-up paddle boards and visits to the Algarve’s caves