The RNLI has issued updated safety advice to water users in response to the latest Met Office yellow weather warning for thunderstorms and strong winds to hit the south west, expected from this evening (Thursday 25 June).
Following the current weather warnings in place for extreme heat, the Met Office have issued a new yellow weather warning for thunderstorms which may produce sudden, gusty winds up to 50 to 60 mph, even 70 mph. Frequent lightning, hail and heavy rain are additional hazards. The RNLI is updating its safety advice to help beachgoers and water users make informed decisions to keep themselves safe.
Steve Instance, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead offers the following advice:
‘While we want people to continue enjoying the coast safely during the current heatwave, it is important for people to remain vigilant and choose lifeguarded beaches wherever possible.
We are watching the weather forecast closely and heeding advise from the Met Office as the day develops.
‘Our key concern in light of the yellow weather warning for thunderstorms is the potential for dangerously strong winds. It is likely that these winds will develop suddenly, bringing with them stormy conditions which may not always be obvious from the beach and catch water users off guard.
‘Our advice to those using watercraft such as kayaks and paddleboards is to be aware that conditions can change quickly and to carry a means of calling for help.
‘Equally, during periods of lightning, it is not safe to enter the water, instead people should exit the water and seek safe shelter immediately.
‘Enjoy the coast but do so safely. Strong winds and lightning pose serious risks, so please stay alert, follow local advice, and never ignore lifeguard warnings’
The RNLI reminds everyone that being prepared and making safe choices can save lives.
For more information on staying safe at the coast, visit: rnli.org/safety
Notes to editors:
Spokespeople available on request
RNLI water safety advice
If you find yourself in trouble in the water, Float to Live:
Tilt your head back with your ears submerged
Relax and try to breathe normally
Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat
It’s OK if your legs sink, we all float differently
Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety
If you see someone else in trouble, remember Phone, Float, Throw:
Phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard
Tell the person to Float to Live
Throw something buoyant, such as a life ring
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.
