East Coast Drowning Toll Rises as Cyclone Tam Fuels Dangerous Surf

The number of fatalities from drowning incidents along Australia's east coast, caused by powerful waves, has climbed to six. A fisherman, swept from the rocky shore, was rescued but could not be resuscitated, according to New South Wales Police on Sunday.

Since Friday, the eastern coast of Australia has been hit by massive waves generated by Cyclone Tam. In New South Wales, five individuals have drowned, and another is still unaccounted for. Local reports indicate that one person has also died in the state of Victoria.

The Australian weather bureau had previously issued warnings about the potential for large waves to impact the coasts of New South Wales and southern Queensland from Thursday through Saturday. Conditions were anticipated to improve on Sunday. Some areas of New South Wales may continue to experience strong winds until Monday night, according to the bureau.

Rescue efforts have been underway, involving local police, the Marine Area Command, and volunteer organizations like Surf Life Saving NSW. These teams have been working to rescue those swept into the sea and to recover and identify the bodies of those who have drowned. Several individuals, including a 14-year-old boy, have been rescued from the water and hospitalized.

Surf Life Saving NSW chief Steven Pearce reported that volunteer lifesavers and ocean lifeguards have conducted over 150 rescues since Good Friday. He noted that this could be the worst Easter drowning toll recorded in New South Wales. He attributed the high number of incidents to a combination of factors, including warm weather, a long weekend, a large number of people visiting the coast, and the significant swell affecting the coastline.

Police have requested that witnesses provide any information regarding the circumstances surrounding the drowning incidents. They have also cautioned about the hazardous conditions for coastal activities, such as boating and rock fishing. The police advised anyone on the water to wear a lifejacket, have all necessary safety equipment, and to check local weather conditions before venturing out.