Rottnest Channel Swim 2026 Faces Potential Delay or Cancellation Due to Weather
The iconic Rottnest Channel Swim, scheduled for this weekend, is under threat of delay or even cancellation as organisers closely monitor an unpredictable weather forecast for Saturday.
Rottnest Channel Swim Association (RCSA) organisers have issued an update stating they are "closely monitoring the weather forecast" and advising individual skippers of support boats to consider weather advice before setting out early Saturday morning.
Weather Monitoring and Safety Concerns
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Saturday's forecast predicts a sunny day with a maximum temperature of 26 degrees. However, light winds are expected to become south to southwesterly at 25 to 35 km/h during the morning.
"At this stage, it is too early to predict if the event will be delayed or cancelled," the RCSA statement read.
The association will meet with a senior forecaster at the Bureau of Meteorology on Thursday and Friday for further updates, as well as with the University of Western Australia's Coastal Oceanography Group for information on predicted currents.
Historical Precedent and Safety Risks
Poor weather conditions can significantly slow swimmers' progress, increasing the risk of hypothermia and stretching safety crews to maximum capacity.
This was demonstrated in 2024 when the swim was cancelled mid-way after weather conditions deteriorated, forcing thousands of swimmers to withdraw immediately. During that event, several swimmers were rescued by Fremantle Marine Rescue, with four transported to hospital as a precaution.
Logistical Challenges and Participant Considerations
The RCSA meets with the Bureau of Meteorology throughout event week to ensure access to the most current information and to make decisions according to its risk management plan.
However, if the swim is cancelled, rescheduling would not be possible due to extensive logistical costs and the complex management of shipping lanes.
"The RCSA is aware participants in the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim have trained for significant amounts of time to prepare for the event, and many have travelled from interstate, overseas and regional WA," the statement continued.
"The RCSA wants to provide participants with every opportunity to undertake their crossing of the Rottnest Channel."
Next Steps and Updates
A further update will be provided to all participants on Thursday as organisers continue to assess the situation.
The Rottnest Channel Swim remains one of Western Australia's most challenging and celebrated open water swimming events, attracting participants from across the globe each year.
