NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment

Illawarra ocean beaches

Wollongong

Shellharbour

Kiama

Tuesday 21 March 2023

Issued at 7:15 AM

Rainfall data has been used to predict the likelihood of bacterial contamination at beaches in the Illawarra region.

Hover over maps for council updates, the latest weekly star ratings and annual Beach Suitability Grades.

Alert

Alert

17 March 2023: NSW Water has reported algae blooms at some swimming sites in the Shellharbour region, which may appear as a brown slick or sawdust like particles at the water surface. As a precaution, direct contact with the algae should be avoided as it can cause skin and eye irritations. It is expected the algae blooms will dissipate with changes in tide and wind conditions.

For information on beach closures please contact relevant authorities such as local councils.

Legend

Pollution is unlikely Pollution is unlikely, enjoy your swim!
Pollution is possible Pollution is possible, take care.
Pollution is likely Pollution is likely, avoid swimming today.
Update Updated information available.

More information about this forecast

 

As a general precaution, swimming at beaches in the Illawarra region should be avoided for up to one day after heavy rainfall or for as long as stormwater is present. The most obvious signs of stormwater pollution are water discolouration as well as debris in the water and on the tide line.

Beach Conditions

Weather – Cloudy. Medium chance of showers. 

Winds – E/SE 15 to 20 km/h tending E/NE in the middle of the day then becoming light in the late evening.

Rainfall – 13mm in the previous 24 hours.

Expected maximum temperature – 22oC

Ocean temperature – 24oC

Swell – Southerly 2 to 2.5 metres.

High tide – 1.88 metres at 08:48

Low tide – 0.15 metres at 15:20

 

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