Irish public urged to avoid water activities this Bank Holiday weekend amid severe weather

Following a period of poor weather, storms and heavy rainfall, the Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI are reminding the public that checking weather and sea conditions is a critical first step before any coastal or water-based activity.

Strong winds this weekend are expected to lead to very rough sea states and large swells, making coastal conditions particularly dangerous.

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Storm waters and rising sea levels can quickly cut people off from safety or allow waves to reach places that are normally dry, leaving little or no time to escape. Keeping safe around water is everyone’s responsibility and staying back from the water’s edge can prevent a tragedy.

Remember too that the edges of waterside pathways may have been damaged in storms and may be unstable.

Year-round swimming and dipping are increasingly popular. Wind conditions can affect waves and swell, create rip currents and poor visibility, and increase cold exposure.

Strong winds make open water riskier, even if the sky is clear. Because water conditions can shift quickly, a calm morning can turn dangerous by afternoon. If the water looks rough, murky, or unpredictable, it may not be safe to enter, so err on the side of caution and do not get in.

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If swimming at this time of year, remember:

• Water temperatures are still cold - wear a wetsuit, brightly coloured swimming cap, and gloves to stay warm
• Acclimatise slowly and use a tow float to increase visibility.
• Never swim alone and always ensure that a colleague is monitoring your activity.
• For the most up to date information on weather and conditions, always check local forecasts to keep informed.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think they are in trouble; Dial 112 or 999 or use VHF radio CH 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.