What beachgoers and anglers need to know as spring tides approach

Coastal visitors heading out on Thursday are urged to check tide times, because spring tides—driven by the new moon—will change water levels and affect activities from surfing and swimming to fishing and boating. Tides don’t act alone: wind, waves and swell can also shift conditions along the shore and offshore. Higher tides can submerge rocks and reefs that are exposed at low tide, increasing hazards for anyone near the waterline. The next spring tide is expected on Saturday, 10 October, coinciding with the new moon. On Friday, beachgoers and anglers should plan around the day’s high and low tide windows.