We've had some pretty crazy weather across the UK this week and South Wales has been no different. We could yet see some more heavy rain over the next few days, which could make the water levels slightly higher than they have been over the last few weeks but conditions should be good for both Gorge Walking & Canyoning. As always you need to be particularly careful if there has been heavy rainfall in the previous 12 - 18 hours as this could lead to flashing on the Gorges increasing water levels and water flow force.
Conditions aren't looking good for Coasteering this weekend unfortunately. During the early part of Saturday the swell may be low but it is due to increase to unsafe levels by lunchtime and gradually increase further into Sunday and Monday. We're also due some strong winds with gusts possibly reaching gale force at times meaning the already challenging water conditions are only likely to become more challenging.
With these unsafe conditions, the best option is to move inland and perhaps heading to some of the beautiful Gorges we have here in South Wales for some Gorge Walking or Canyoning.
We're expecting some good size swell this weekend on the South Wales coast, possibly reaching 6+ feet Saturday afternoon into Sunday. Be aware we are expecting strong South Westerly winds, with gusts potentially reaching gale force so they will have an impact on conditions. If you are planning on surfing, head for the sheltered beaches,Rest Bay, Coney Beach & Llangenith could all be possible options.
As usual watch the local tidal conditions and for the best swell look to surf on an incoming tide.
We have a packed weekend and week ahead, all our activities are in full flow running gorge walking, canyoning, beach events and surfing throughout the week. We firstly have Kelvin and the boys on their stag weekend in Cardiff heading off into the mountains for some high adrenaline gorge walking. Were then off to the canyoning site with Mitch and the lads who are having a fun packed rugby weekend in Cardiff South Wales. They will be with us on Sunday morning for a blast in the mountains. We also have Ben and the Google mob later in the week back in the rivers and the montains so keep an eye on facebook for the pictures.
As always in South Wales you need to be aware of the potential of flashing in the Gorges after any spell of heavy rain. Again the nice weather we've seen hasn't had enough time to make a big difference to water temperatures yet, with rivers around the 4°C mark and sea around 9°C - 10°C so need to ensure you take precautions, particularly with regards to thermal protection. We are expecting strong winds in South Wales over the weekend so you will need to factor in the effects of these when reviewing the conditions.