The average sea temperature around the UK and Ireland is just 12°C – cold enough to trigger shock, stop you breathing and make your heart work dangerously hard. Yet as an ‘Extreme Heat’ red alert sweeps England and Wales this week, thousands are expected to head for the coast to cool off.
The Met Office has issued urgent safety guidance for anyone tempted to take a plunge, warning that sea-surface temperatures are still far lower than they would be in midsummer. The advice comes alongside a reminder from the RNLI that water that feels refreshing can be lethal if entered unexpectedly.
“Met Office warns swimmers of cold water shock as extreme heat alert covers England and Wales.”
“With warmer weather approaching, it’s important to remember that the water is still cold,” said Samantha Hughes, National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI. “Entering it unexpectedly can lead to cold water shock, causing a sudden increase in breathing and heart rate, which may trigger panic.”
Anyone who finds themselves struggling should “Float to Live”, she said: tilt the head back so ears are submerged, relax and control breathing. “You may need to gently use your hands to help you stay afloat, and it’s ok if your legs sink—everyone floats differently.”
The Met Office listed three simple precautions: check the water temperature – anything 15°C or lower can cause cold water shock; wear a wetsuit if spending time in the water; and use a life jacket or swimming buoy to improve chances if shock hits.
Beachgoers have been urged to choose lifeguarded beaches, swim between red and yellow flags, and call 999 for the coastguard in an emergency. Tide times, wave heights and sea-surface temperatures can be checked via the Met Office app.
While some who weathered the legendary heatwave of 1976 swear by grit, a pint and a packet of crisps to survive, the official advice this week is far more cautious – and the cold water risk is real. Rivers such as the Thames are even colder than the sea, even in summer, the Met Office warned.
With the mercury expected to soar, the question remains: will the lure of a cooling swim override the warnings?