Several sea rescue organisations, including the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Lifesaving South Africa, have issued urgent warnings to the public following a spike in drowning incidents across the country in the first week of February 2026.
It is reported these tragedies come amid a heatwave and spring tides, which have created hazardous conditions along the coastline and inland waters.
Over the past weekend (31 January – 1 February) and into the new week, several drowning incidents have been reported.
“These incidents are a tragic reminder that water activities are never without risk,” said Brett Ayres, Chief Operating Officer of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).
“Our crews responded to multiple drownings and non-fatal rescues over the past week, and each of these tragedies underscores the importance of vigilance and proper safety measures when entering the water.”
The NSRI noted that both coastal and inland waters have been affected, and that teenagers between the ages of 14 and 16 accounted for a significant portion of those missing or deceased.
Many of the incidents occurred during spring tides, which can cause stronger currents and more unpredictable water conditions.
“Rip currents are fast, narrow channels of water that pull swimmers away from the shore,” said Andrew Ingram, NSRI Communications Manager.
“They’re difficult to spot and extremely dangerous, particularly when combined with spring tides, as we experienced last week. Inland water bodies, such as dams, can also appear calm but are equally hazardous.”
Recent inland water tragedies included a fatal drowning in a dam on Table Mountain and another at Kanana Dam near Rustenburg, highlighting that danger is not limited to the coast.
The NSRI, supported by municipal lifeguards and voluntary lifesavers, has been working tirelessly to respond to emergencies. Between Sunday 25 January and Sunday 1 February, NSRI crews attended to over 30 rescue incidents across the country. While at least ten people drowned or remain missing, 39 people were successfully rescued.
Notable rescues during this period included:
A mass rescue at Kleinmond Main Beach where nine people, including teenagers, were swept out by rip currents and saved using NSRI Pink Rescue Buoys.
A 47-year-old woman was rescued after being swept off rocks near Gordons Bay.
Two seafarers were medically evacuated from a vessel off Richards Bay.
Multiple kayakers and small craft operators assisted after mechanical failures or capsizes along the coast.
“These rescues highlight the importance of flotation devices, early calls for help, and coordinated responses in saving lives,” said Ingram. “Good Samaritans, lifeguards, and volunteer crews all played crucial roles in preventing further tragedy.”
The NSRI warns that a combination of heatwaves, spring tides, and unguarded swimming areas has created a particularly dangerous environment for bathers. Members of the public are strongly urged to swim only where lifeguards are on duty, remain within flagged areas, and supervise children at all times.
Additional safety advice includes avoiding alcohol before swimming or participating in water-based activities, understanding the dangers of rip currents, and ensuring that flotation devices are available when necessary.
“This has been an extremely challenging week for our crews,” said Ayres.
“Each drowning and rescue incident is a stark reminder of the risks involved with water activities. We urge the public to be vigilant, to respect the power of the water, and to prioritise safety for themselves and their loved ones.”
As South Africa continues to experience high temperatures and the ongoing effects of spring tides, Lifesaving South Africa and the NSRI stress that water safety remains a critical concern.
Swimmers, parents, and recreational water users are urged to exercise extreme caution, stay informed about conditions, and follow all guidance from lifeguards and safety authorities.
Saturday Star