River levels on the River Sychryd and River Mellte are currently good to low. The recent dry weather we've been seeing here in South Wales also means the land is starting to dry out. This can increase the chances of flashing on the rivers if we get a spell of heavy rain and will also mean the environment around the rivers will have likely been changed by the water movement.
Whilst conditions for both Gorge Walking and Canyoning are still good for the weekend currently, don't be fooled by the nice weather. Things can always change quickly on the river, so it's vital you stay informed of rainfall in the mountain regions of the Brecon Beacons, particularly in the 12 - 18 hours before you plan to start your Gorge Walk and Canyoning activity.
Coasteering is looking doubtful this weekend. Swell is 2ft - 4ft but with southerlies and westerlies, with the potential for gusts up to 17 knots, the conditions could very quickly turn unsafe, particularly on the south and west facing beaches. If we are going to get acceptable Coasteering conditions anywhere, Caswell Bay in Swansea may be you best option as it a more easterly facing bay.
Watch wind speed and the effect that is having on the swell size, speed and tide, or take your activity inland and join us up in the Brecons for some Gorge Walking or Canyoning.
The surfers among us could be in for a good weekend again. Reasonable size swell and the gentle wind should see some nice conditions. Be aware of the gusts, which could pick up significantly Saturday afternoon into Sunday. Head for some of South Wales' more protected beaches, such as Rest Bay in Porthcawl or Caswell Bay in Swansea.
For the best conditions, take advantage of the incoming tide, with high tide on Saturday at 11:30 at a height of 8.3m.
We'll be back on the Gorge this weekend with our usual mix of stag do's from the Cardiff and Swansea and various Hen Parties taking part in Gorge Walking and Canyoning activities.
We'll also be doing some Beach Activity days and teaching some groups how to surf, depending on the conditions. We've also been taking advantage of the late night light we're having now, getting down to the Coney beach in Porthcawl and keeping our instructors skills up to scratch with various training courses.
Be aware of swell size and wind direction / strength, particularly for Coasteering. An increase in the size of swell or wind strengthunsafe conditions. Don't be fooled by the nice weather we've had in South Wales these past few days either when it comes to Gorge Walking or Canyoning any heavy bout of rain could quickly increase river levels and flashing.
If we continue to see the sun that we have over the last few days here in South Wales then you will need to be aware of overheating, particularly if you are wearing thermal protection for when you enter the water. Ensure you have plenty of fluids and somewhere to get out of the sun if required.
