Surf forecasts for offshore swell conditions are quite reliable, but they require significant translation with an understanding of local environments to accurately predict conditions on any beach.
A variety of organisations provide marine forecasting services, including Surf Life Saving, Coastalwatch and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. The key information provided includes significant wave height, swell period, swell direction, wind speed and wind direction.
Routinely accessing this information before commencing your lifesaving duties allows for additional preparation for hazardous conditions if necessary. The SLS Beachsafe App allows you to look up the specific surf forecast at the beach you are heading to.
