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Visitors to the beaches and coasts of Wales over the bank holiday weekend are being cautioned about the potential for abnormally large waves and hazardous sea conditions following a string of rip current rescues. In Pembrokeshire alone, 46 individuals were saved by RNLI lifeguards earlier this month, including two young children. According to forecasts, surf conditions on Monday and Tuesday could see waves reaching up to 3m (9.8ft), especially in south and west Wales, with an increased risk of rip currents. The RNLI is urging people to choose beaches with lifeguards on duty whenever possible.
Chris Cousens, RNLI water safety lead, revealed that the current forecast for Monday and Tuesday is quite atypical for this time of year due to larger-than-usual swell resulting in substantial surf. He emphasized the potential for waves to reach heights of 3m, which is unprecedented for this time of year. The prevailing conditions present a heightened danger for individuals engaging in activities such as boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Swimmers are cautioned about the elevated risk of rip currents and powerful waves due to the combination of high tides and large swells.
The warning follows a series of rescues linked to rip currents involving bodyboarders, swimmers, and surfers. From 9 to 15 August, the RNLI responded to numerous incidents at various beaches, including Newgale Beach, Tenby Castle Beach, and Freshwater West. At Newgale Beach alone, six individuals were rescued and seven others received assistance over a two-day period after venturing into the water beyond designated lifeguard patrol areas. Incidents involving inflatables and stand-up paddleboards swept out by strong currents were reported, necessitating lifeguard intervention.
Rip currents, which are swift currents flowing out to sea, have the capacity to swiftly drag individuals from shallow waters to deeper regions. Their force can reach speeds of up to 5mph, exceeding even that of an Olympic swimmer. The RNLI underscores the need to exercise caution around all bodies of water, as rip currents can also be present near river mouths, estuaries, and manmade structures such as piers. Identified by agitated, turbulent water on the sea’s surface, rip currents can pose a significant challenge to swimmers caught within them
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