Storm Ciaran: Bodyboarders brave waves in Exmouth

A group of reckless bodyboarders have been filmed battling against waves on Exmouth beach as the coast was hit by Storm Ciarán.

The shocking footage, captured by Jody Pell, shows the group struggling against the tide as they push against crashing waves, reports Devon Live.

It comes after the RNLI issued an urgent plea advising people against swimming in the sea during the storm’s wrath, which got up to more than 100mph off the Channel Islands.

An amber weather warning for wind is currently in place across the region as the Met Office warns of a ‘danger to life’. Other areas are also under warnings for rain and wind, as many towns are submerged in flood water.

The Exeter-based forecaster has predicted gusts of up to 85mph in some coastal areas alongside heavy rain.

READ MORE: Storm Ciaran video shows huge tree ripped from roots as cars covered in rubble

Despite a warning from Exmouth RNLI, which urged the public to “keep a safe distance away from the water”, the group of bodyboarders in the seaside town have ignored the safety advice and battled the waves.

It warned that the severe weather associated with Storm Ciarán could result in swimmers getting “washed away”.

In a statement on Facebook, an Exmouth RNLI spokesperson said: “With Storm Ciarán approaching, high winds / tides and heavy rain are likely.

“Please keep a safe distance away from the water as you could get knocked over or washed into the sea. If you see someone in danger in the water, call 999 / 112 & ask for the coastguard.”

Don’t miss…
Does the UK need better flood defences – cast your vote[LATEST]
Video shows shoppers wading through street as gardens destroyed in Storm Ciaran[FORECAST]
Sky News reporter falls live on air during Storm Ciaran chaos sparking concerns[INSIGHT]

• Advert-free experience without interruptions.
• Rocket-fast speedy loading pages.
• Exclusive & Unlimited access to all our content.

When will Storm Ciarán end?

Storm Ciarán hit the UK on Wednesday night. Today it will track across the south-east and East Anglia before moving over the North Sea this afternoon.

It is believed wind gusts will have peaked over the Channel Islands, Devon and Cornwall but damage and disruption are still possible and wind could strengthen across the coastal areas of the south-east.

Yellow and amber weather alerts for wind and rain remain in place across the south coast of England. There is also a yellow rain alert in Wales and along the east coast from Leeds to Inverness.

The Met Office predicts the storm’s high winds will persist into tomorrow, although not at the same strength, before dying off into Saturday. However, the weekend itself looks to ba mixed bag of unsettled conditions.

Source: Read Full Article