Stormy New Year Weather: RNLI Warns of Coastal Dangers

As strong winds and dangerous conditions loom over the UK this New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is urging the public to prioritise safety when visiting the coast.

Lifeboat Crews and Lifeguards on High Alert

RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews have been on call 24/7 throughout the festive period, braving challenging conditions to ensure public safety. Over the six-day period from Christmas Eve to Sunday, 29th December, RNLI lifeboats across the UK and Ireland launched 43 times, including nine launches on Christmas Day alone.

Meanwhile, RNLI lifeguards continue their year-round patrol of Crosby beach in Merseyside, ensuring beachgoers stay safe no matter the weather.

Yellow Weather Warning for New Year

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for high winds expected to impact large parts of the UK over the New Year. In response, the RNLI is advising the public to take extra precautions when visiting coastal areas.

Chris Cousens, the RNLI’s Regional Water Safety Lead, highlighted the risks posed by the forecasted conditions. Chris said:

“We know the predicted high winds are likely to lead to dangerous coastal conditions.

If you plan on visiting the coast on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, the RNLI advises you to be aware of the local risks and weather conditions.

If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember to Float to Live; lie back in the water, extend your arms and legs and try to relax as best you can until you get control of your breathing.

If you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. If you have something that floats that they can hold on to, throw it to them. Don’t go in the water yourself as you may end up in difficulty too.”

RNLI’s Top Coastal Safety Tips

The lifesaving charity advises everyone to:

• Stay well back from stormy, wintry seas and cliff edges.
• Check the weather forecast and tide times before heading out.
• Carry a phone in case of emergencies.
• In an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

With RNLI teams ready to respond at a moment’s notice, the public is encouraged to exercise caution and respect the sea during the upcoming stormy weather.

For those planning a coastal visit, these simple steps could save a life. Stay safe and ensure your New Year begins on a positive note.