RNLI safety warning ahead of large spring tides

Penarth's RNLI B class lifeboat on a call out

People visiting the coast this Easter weekend are being urged to be cautious due to an increased risk of becoming cut off by large spring tides.

The warning comes as new figures show a rise of about 15% in tidal cut off rescues.

The RNLI is warning people of the dangers of the tides that coincide with the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

Tide times and heights vary throughout the month and can easily leave people stranded and needing help.

"When it comes to tides even a short miscalculation can make a big difference, especially when there are bigger than usual tides," said Jason Dunlop, Penarth RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager.

"Here in the Vale of Glamorgan we see a lot of tidal cut off incidents around Sully Island.

"We have attended this site up to 25 times in a year to carry out rescues."

Jason added: "People can be embarrassed about being rescued but there's nothing embarrassing about calling the emergency services.

"It's a very dynamic environment with the weather and the tide changing all the time.

"Tides in the Bristol Channel are the second highest in the world.

"Tidal ranges are around 12 metres, that's the size of a house.

"So, you could be stood in a puddle one moment and next you could be in metres of water, with tide rising at 3cm a minute.”

The RNLI said both its lifeboat and lifeguard services in Wales saw an increase in call-outs to tidal cut-offs.

In 2023, RNLI lifeboats were called to 80 tidal cut-off rescues - up from 69 in 2022.

RNLI lifeguards will also return to the beaches for the first patrols of the season, with visitors heading to the coast for the Easter holidays.

There will be patrols on nine beaches across Wales to start.

Anya Walton has been an RNLI beach lifeguard for six years

Anya Walton, who has been a RNLI beach lifeguard for six years, said: "If people are going to the beach, we recommend they go to a beach with lifeguards.

"If you find yourself in difficulty it is vital that you call 999 and ask for the coastguard."

She added: "Social media also shines a light on spots people didn't know about before, but I'd say if you are going to visit a place you haven't been before, stop and think about it."

"Check if there will be lifeguards there, make sure if you are going to go in the water that there's someone with you and you have a means of contact to call for help."