RNLI tells Eastbourne residents to stay away from the sea ahead of yellow weather warning

The Met Office has put out a yellow weather warning for wind from 9pm tonight (March 10) until 3pm tomorrow (March 11).

It says people should expect cold weather, heavy rain and winds of up to 70mph.

The weather is expected to stay unsettled with blustery showers and inland gales for the weekend.

This warning has caused the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) to tell people to stay safe near the coast as the weather could make it particularly dangerous.

Gareth Morrison, head of water safety for the RNLI, said, “During lockdown, RNLI lifeboats and stations remain operational and will launch around the clock where there is risk to life.

“We would encourage everyone to follow the latest government guidelines on what they are able to do and where they are able to go during lockdown, but for anyone visiting a coastal area please understand the risks to be as safe as possible and not put unnecessary strain on front line services.”

The RNLI said in a normal year 150 people lose their lives at the coast and ‘more than half of those never intended to be in the water’.

Mr Morrison said, “So, whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risk or entering the water.

“In particular, we ask people to stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges, check tide times before you go, take a phone with you, and call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard if you or someone else is in trouble.”

More information is available at: www.rnli.org/safety.