The National Sea Rescue Institute has cautioned beach goers as the high spring tide swept up beaches on the coastline in the early hours of the morning on Boxing Day. Roads and houses in some parts of Cape Town have been damaged by flooding. December, 26th is traditionally a day when thousands of Cape Town families make their way to the beach for a day of relaxing after the Christmas festivities. However, residents on the coastal beaches say crashing waves have washed over, taking beach chairs with it. Residents in some parts of Cape Town’s beach areas have also taken to social media, posting pictures of the devastation.

NSRI spokesperson, Craig Lambinon says high seas levels have caused waves to wash over some roads as well. Some campers in Strand have been relocated to higher ground.

“We expecting the spring tide to persist for the rest of the day. We advise bathers to swim in areas where lifeguards are on duty and not to take any risks when going to the beach,” Lambinon explained.

Meanwhile, boaters launching their boats onto the water should exercise extreme caution because of the rough sea conditions.

“Very strong rip currents are expected throughout the day, particularly later in the evening,” Lambinon added. VOC (Ra’eesah Isaacs)