Wave heights to reach 6 metres in the eastern cape

The Eastern Cape province of South Africa is known for its rugged coastline and significant wave heights, particularly during the winter months. Here are some general guidelines on the wave heights that can be expected to reach 6 meters (19.7 feet) or more in the Eastern Cape:

Winter months (June to August)

• The Eastern Cape coastline is exposed to the full force of the Atlantic Ocean, which means that wave heights can be significant during the winter months.
• Wave heights of 6 meters (19.7 feet) or more are common during this period, particularly during storms and low-pressure systems.
• The most consistent and highest wave heights are typically found at exposed locations such as:
  • Cape St. Francis: 6-8 meters (19.7-26.2 feet)
  • East London: 6-7 meters (19.7-23 feet)
  • Port Elizabeth: 5-7 meters (16.4-23 feet)

Summer months (December to February)

• During the summer months, the wave heights are generally lower due to the warmer ocean temperatures and the influence of the Agulhas Current.
• However, wave heights of 6 meters (19.7 feet) or more can still occur during summer, particularly during storms and low-pressure systems.
• The most consistent and highest wave heights during summer are typically found at:
  • Cape St. Francis: 4-6 meters (13.1-19.7 feet)
  • East London: 4-5 meters (13.1-16.4 feet)
  • Port Elizabeth: 3-5 meters (9.8-16.4 feet)

Other factors to consider

• The wave heights mentioned above are general guidelines and can vary significantly depending on various factors such as:
  • Storms and low-pressure systems: These can bring significant wave heights, even during the summer months.
  • Swell direction: Waves from the west and southwest tend to be larger than those from the east and northeast.
  • Tides: Higher tides can increase wave heights, while lower tides can reduce them.
  • Coastal geometry: The shape and orientation of the coastline can affect wave heights, with exposed locations typically experiencing higher wave heights than sheltered ones.

It's essential to note that these are general guidelines, and wave heights can vary significantly from year to year and even within a single day. If you're planning to engage in water activities or need more specific information, it's recommended to check with local surf reports, weather forecasts, and coastal authorities for the most up-to-date information.