Police warn boaties to stay off the water due to severe weather

Police are warning all boaties and waterways users to consider the need to go out on the water as strong winds and large swell are expected to increase to severe gale force winds and damaging swells.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting an East Coast Low to develop off the southeast Queensland coast on Friday with wave and wind impacts to coastal areas, including Moreton Bay, over the coming days.

Brisbane Water Police Sergeant Daniel Moyle strongly advises people should avoid any type of boating and water activities that may place them at unnecessary risk through the coming days.

“We are expecting to see extremely dangerous conditions on the water and are urging everyone to make smart decisions and stay safe,” Sergeant Daniel Moyle says.

“Boaties and non-powered watercraft users should reconsider any plans over the coming days.”

Sergeant Daniel Moyle is also urging people to ensure their anchored or moored vessels are prepared for extreme winds and damaging swell.

“Those already on the water should ensure they are carrying the appropriate safety equipment and consider seeking shelter,” he says.

What the Bureau says

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a strong wind warning which stretches from north Queensland down to the Gold Coast.

• Windy conditions are expected to develop about the east coast from the Mackay coast to the Gold Coast waters from as early as today.

• Strong wind warnings are likely to be issued from Wednesday and continue over the weekend, including for Moreton Bay.

• The windiest conditions are expected on Friday and Saturday, with a risk of offshore gales developing for a time from the Fraser waters to the Gold Coast waters.

• The strongest of the winds, especially the extent of gales will be dependent on the track and development of an offshore low pressure system during Friday and Saturday.

• Risk of hazardous surf conditions developing about the exposed southeast coast during Friday and continuing over the weekend.

More information about weather warnings can be found on www.bom.gov.au