RNLI urges public to stay safe at the coast as Storm Austen hits south Wales

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning with winds forecast to reach more than 70mph in coastal locations along the south and south-west coast of Wales.

The expected strong winds will also bring heavy rain posing a safety risk to those visiting the coast. The RNLI is encouraging people to exercise extreme caution if visiting the shoreline, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

RNLI Water Safety Manager, Ross Macleod said: ‘Storm Austen is set to bring potentially dangerous conditions so we’re asking the public to stay vigilant and not take unnecessary risks. If you plan to visit the coast or a waterside location, we urge you stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea.

'If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember to Float to Live: Lie back in the water with your head so far back that your ears are wet, extend your arms and legs and try to relax as best as you can until you get control of your breathing before then calling for help or swimming to safety.

‘If you see someone else in danger – do not enter the water yourself as you could also end up in serious difficulty. Instead, remember phone, float, throw – phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard; tell the struggling person to float; throw them something buoyant, like a life ring.’

RNLI lifeguards will be on duty daily (10am-6pm) at Whitesands Beach, Pembrokeshire, from this Saturday (24 October) to Sunday 1 November 2026. There are no longer any RNLI lifeguarded beaches elsewhere in Wales. If you are visiting the coast during the half-term, remember to think about your safety as a priority. Always check the weather and tide and read local safety signage. If in doubt about the conditions, don’t go in to the water, there will always be another day to visit the beach.

If you find yourself in trouble in the water, the RNLI’s safety advice is 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 at the coast, remember Phone, Float Throw:

• Phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard to get help

• Tell the struggling person to Float to Live

• Throw them something that floats, such as a life ring.

Notes to editors

• Downloadable soundbite from RNLI Water Safety Manager Ross Macleod here.

• Downloadable image: Porthcawl RNLI inshore lifeboat in rough conditions. Credit RNLI/Stephen Duncombe here.

• Downloadable image: St Davids RNLI all-weather lifeboat at sea in rough conditions. Credit RNLI/Nathan Williams– Download here.