15 May 2011

Waikato Regional Council warns of heavy sea swells

3:01 pm on 15 May 2011

The Waikato Regional Council warned people to exercise extreme caution, on or near the water along the west coast area of the region on Sunday, due to heavy sea swells.

It says swells of up to four metres are forecast for Sunday, building up to six metres by Tuesday and Wednesday.

The council says the big swell, combined with high winds, a full moon and king tides, means there is an increased risk of sea surges, and the potential for inundation of coastal areas.

The Waikato Regional Council duty emergency management officer Sarah Basheer, says people should avoid taking risks, as the conditions mean the situation could turn nasty quite quickly.