The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is urging people to stay alert as powerful long-period swell is expected to affect exposed parts of the UK coastline. Although the sea may appear calm at times, dangerous waves can arrive suddenly with enough force to knock people off their feet or sweep them into the water.
According to the RNLI, these conditions often catch people by surprise because long gaps between waves can create a false sense of safety. Walkers, photographers and families may move closer to the shoreline during these quiet moments, only to be caught by the next powerful wave.
Why today’s sea conditions are more dangerous
Unlike short, choppy waves created by local winds, long-period swell travels across great distances and carries much more energy. While there may be fewer waves reaching the shore, each one can be significantly stronger and push much further up beaches, over harbour walls and onto promenades.
The RNLI says this type of swell regularly leads to an increase in coastal rescues because the danger is not always obvious until it’s too late.
- Long calm periods between wave sets can encourage people to move closer to the water.
- Large waves can suddenly surge much further inland than expected.
- Sea walls, rocks, steps and harbour edges quickly become slippery and hazardous.
- High tide increases the risk, allowing waves to reach higher ground with greater force.
RNLI safety advice for visitors
Some of the strongest impacts are expected along exposed coastlines in South West England, but anyone visiting the coast should remain cautious throughout the day. Even experienced beachgoers can underestimate the power of long-period swell.
The RNLI recommends staying well back from the shoreline and avoiding harbour walls, piers and sea fronts where waves are breaking. Parents should keep children close at all times, while dogs should remain on a lead near the water.
If you’re planning to watch the surf, choose a safe viewing point away from cliff edges, rock platforms and the bottom of sea-wall steps where unexpected waves often reach first.
People hoping to capture dramatic photographs should also think twice. A single breaking wave can sweep across sea walls without warning, potentially knocking someone into the sea or against nearby structures.
Swimmers and surfers are also being advised to take extra care. Long-period swell can strengthen rip currents and create rapidly changing sea conditions, particularly near headlands, harbour entrances and rocky coves.
If you’re visiting a beach, spend a few minutes watching the sea before getting close to the water. Look for larger waves breaking further offshore, whitewater reaching higher than earlier sets or waves overtopping sea walls. These are all signs that conditions may be worsening.
The safest approach is simple: give the sea plenty of space and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
If you see someone in difficulty in the water, call 999 or 112 immediately and ask for the Coastguard. Do not enter the water unless you are properly trained and equipped for a rescue. If possible, keep the person in sight, throw them something that floats and direct emergency responders to their exact location.
For the latest safety information, visit the RNLI’s official website. You can also find more UK news and weather updates on Swikblog.
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