Sea conditions will be treacherous in the next few days because of unusual conditions
10:19, 24 Aug 2025Updated 13:59, 24 Aug 2025
Visitors to Welsh beaches and coastlines are being cautioned(Image: PA)
Visitors to Welsh beaches and coastlines over the next few days are being cautioned about the potential for unusual conditions.
Large waves and hazardous sea conditions are being forecast. Surf conditions on Monday and Tuesday could see waves reaching up to 3m (9ft 10in), particularly in south and west Wales, increasing the risk of rip currents. The RNLI is urging people to visit beaches where lifeguards are on duty, if possible, as in Pembrokeshire alone, RNLI lifeguards have rescued 46 individuals earlier this month, including two young children.
Chris Cousens, RNLI water safety lead, said waves could reach 3m which was much bigger than they would expect at any time of year and unusual.
He said: “We want people to enjoy the bank holiday and stay safe, and with this unusually big surf forecast for this time of year likely to peak later in the bank holiday weekend and early next week, it’s important for people to be aware so they can keep themselves and their families safe. For the biggest stories in Wales, sign up to our daily newsletter here
“Big surf means greater risk from rip currents and the swell also coincides with spring tides – which means more powerful tidal water movement at greater speed.
“The forecast is changeable, so things might look different over the next couple of days. But we do know that with the current forecast for bigger waves building and arriving towards the end and the day after the August bank holiday weekend, beaches are likely to be busy with holidaymakers and locals.
“Some places could see bigger waves building through the weekend too.
“We always advise people to visit a lifeguarded beach where possible – but we also appreciate people will be out on the coast where lifeguards are not present.
“Rip currents are powerful channels of water that become more powerful in larger surf. They are also found around river mouths, estuaries and man-made structures like piers and groynes.
“Our rip current advice is the same whether you are at a lifeguarded beach or not. If you find yourself caught in a rip current don’t fight against it or you’ll get exhausted.
“If you can stand, wade back to shore, or swim parallel to the beach until you’re free of the current, then return to the beach. Alternatively, if you can’t do either of those or are becoming exhausted, Float to Live to preserve your energy and then wave and shout for help.”
What are rip currents?
A rip current is a strong, narrow flow of water that moves from the shore out to sea, typically forming through a break in a sandbar or between waves.
As waves push water toward the shore, that water must return to the ocean, and sometimes it funnels through a narrow channel, creating a fast-moving current.
Rip currents can travel at speeds up to 8 feet per second, making them faster than even the best swimmers. Though they are usually only 10 to 20 feet wide, they can extend far offshore and are often difficult to spot, sometimes appearing as a patch of choppy water, a gap in breaking waves, or a change in water colour.
They are dangerous because they can quickly pull swimmers away from the shore, often causing panic or exhaustion.
What to do if you’re caught in a rip current
Rip currents do not drag people under the water. If caught in one, it’s important to stay calm, avoid fighting the current, and swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of it. Then you can swim back to land at an angle. If you’re unable to escape, float or tread water and signal for help.
If that is not possible then the RNLI says remembering “float to live” is the best thing to do until you can call for help.
James Instance, HM Coastguard divisional commander, said: “Conditions in the Atlantic are predicted to mix with high tides to raise the risk in areas which are expected to be busy with visitors during the holidays.
“There is the likelihood of strong waves and currents which could lead to people being swept out, particularly children or vulnerable people.
“Please stay aware of the state of the sea and the tide, and follow our simple guidance to ensure you have a fun day and come home safe.”