The RNLI are urging those visiting the coast to exercise extreme caution, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers as Storm Agnes hits the coasts of Cornwall.

 

The Met Office have issued a yellow weather warning that affects large parts of the south west as heavy rain and up to 80mph winds have been forecast from midday on Wednesday lasting until Thursday morning.

 

In a Facebook post Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: "Storm Agnes is set to impact most of the UK today, and is expected to bring winds of up to 80mph to the coastline.

"We are urging everyone to please take the weather warnings seriously, keep away from the water's edge and stay safe.

"Accidents do happen, such as when this boat ran aground during stormy conditions in 2021."

Henry Irvine, RNLI Regional Lifeguard Lead in the south west said: 'The conditions forecast for the next few days pose significant risk to those visiting the coast.

‘We strongly advise that you do not go in the water. The risk of rip currents will be heightened by the strong winds and big swell.

‘Be aware of your surroundings whilst walking on the beach, the conditions increase the likelihood of tidal surges that could sweep you out to sea.

 

‘If you see anyone in difficulty along the coast, never attempt a rescue yourself as you could also end up in difficulty. Always remember to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’ The following Cornish beaches are being patrolled daily by RNLI lifeguards (between 10am-6pm) until 6pm on Sunday, October 29; Fistral, Perranporth, Porthmeor and Sennen.

 

Woolacombe in Devon is being patrolled every day until 6pm on Sunday, October 1, then it will operate a weekend-only lifeguard patrol. It will return to daily lifeguard patrols during the October half-term holiday (21-29 October 21-29).

Bantham, Tregonhawke, Praa Sands, Towan, Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth, Porthtowan, Gwithian, Constantine, Harlyn, Polzeath, Widemouth, Croyde, Summerleaze and Le Braye (Jersey), are being patrolled only on the weekends until October 21. They will then be patrolled every day until September 29 for the duration of the half term holiday.

The RNLI advice is:

Stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges.

Check the weather forecast and tide times before you go.

Take a phone with you.

In an emergency call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.