Police are urging the community to stay away from the water as hazardous surf is expected across the NSW coast this weekend.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a number of hazardous surf warnings for several areas across the state's coast due to concerns from dangerous swell and strong wind.
The warnings are in place today (Thursday 26 March 2026) and (Friday 27 March 2026):
- Thursday 26 March 2026: Byron Coast, Coffs Coast, Macquarie Coast, Hunter Coast, Sydney Coast, Illawarra Coast, Batemans Coast and Eden Coast.
- Friday 27 March 2026: Hunter Coast, Sydney Coast, Illawarra Coast, Batemans Coast and Eden Coast.
As the weather conditions on the coast are expected to be extremely hazardous this weekend, officers attached to Marine Area Command are urging all members of the community to stay away from the water from today and across the weekend.
- Avoid all water-based activities where possible.
- Stay well clear of rock platforms and ocean-exposed locations.
- Do not attempt to cross coastal bars.
- Delay or cancel boating plans until conditions improve.
Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Brazzill from Marine Area Command said swells are expected to be unpredictable this weekend and will put anyone entering the water at risk, even those with lifejackets.
"We're urging anyone who planned to head out on the water this weekend to reconsider it."
"Strong winds and powerful surf are expected, which will put not only the public at risk but also emergency services," Chief Inspector Brazzill said.
"While NSW Police Force have high performance resources including police boats, police divers, PolAir and specialist rescue officers, severe weather will highly likely limit our ability to conduct search and rescue in some instances."
"The message is clear. Monitor the weather closely and try to stay away from the water this weekend. Our top priority is your safety."
