With Storm Kathleen expected to bring strong winds and high waves to the region tomorrow, the RNLI and National Highway are urging people planning on going out to take precautions.

The Packet reported yesterday (Thursday) that a yellow weather warning for wind is in place across Cornwall from 8am on Saturday (April 6) until 10pm.

Gusts of 50mph are expected quite widely on Saturday, while some exposed spots, particularly on the coast, will see 60 to 70mph gusts with large waves also likely.

Cornwall Council has advised people to avoid exposed coastal areas when Storm Kathleen hits. The RNLI has also offered advice to stay safe whilst visiting certain beaches across the Duchy on Saturday.

Falmouth Packet: 19 beaches in Cornwall will be patrolled by lifeguards this weekend 19 beaches in Cornwall will be patrolled by lifeguards this weekend (Image: RNLI)

The RNLI are advising members of the public to choose one of the following beaches in Cornwall which are patrolled by lifeguards throughout the Easter Holidays.

The beaches are:

  • Crantock
  • Fistral, Newquay
  • Towan, Newquay
  • Watergate Bay, Newquay
  • Mawgan Porth, Newquay
  • Tregonhawke
  • Widemouth
  • Summerleaze, Bude
  • Treyarnon
  • Constantine Bay
  • Harlyn Bay
  • Polzeath
  • Praa Sands
  • Porthtowan
  • Perranporth
  • Gwithian North
  • Hayle Towans
  • Porthmeor, St Ives
  • Sennen

Dangerous Sea State Expected

A yellow weather warning is in place for strong winds from 8am to 10pm tomorrow. Forecasters predict wave heights between 10-25 feet, coupled with strong southerly winds. These conditions can create a dangerous sea state and increase the risk of strong rip currents.

Safety Advice

  • If you see a red flag at a lifeguarded beach, do not enter the water.
  • If there are no flags, there are no lifeguards present and conditions might be dangerous.
  • Be aware of rising tides and plan your time accordingly to avoid getting cut off.
  • Carry a fully charged mobile phone in case of emergencies.
  • If you get into trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Rip Current Safety Tips

  • If caught in a rip current, stay calm and do not try to swim against it.
  • Swim parallel to the shore until free of the current, then head for shore.
  • If you have a floatation device, hold onto it.
  • Always raise your hand and shout for help.

National Highways are also advising drivers to ‘take care’ on roads during Storm Kathleen.

Falmouth Packet: Caravans should avoid doing this over the weekend!Caravans should avoid doing this over the weekend! (Image: Getty)

Dale Hipkiss, National Network manager at National Highways, said: “With the arrival of Storm Kathleen it is important to plan ahead for your journey, and if weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care.

“A section of our website provides practical advice for travelling in storms, high winds and gales. It’s also a good idea for people to remember TRIP – Top-up your vehicle; Rest every two hours, Inspect tyres and lights and Prepare for the journey ahead. 

“We constantly monitor wind speeds, particularly around bridges and exposed routes, and will always endeavour to keep them open as long as it is safe to do so. In the kind of conditions we are expecting this weekend, please check the route your route before setting off."

National Highways said that in high winds, there’s a particular risk to lorries, caravans and motorbikes, so drivers should slow down and avoid using exposed sections of road if possible. 

The Met Office said that the following could potentially happen during high winds:

  • Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible. 
  • Some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs. 
  • Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible. 
  • Some roads and bridges may close. 
  • Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage. 
  • Injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties. 

If your vehicle is susceptible to high-wind conditions, consider delaying your journey until weather conditions improve if you can.

National Highways provides live traffic information via its website – www.nationalhighways.co.uk/traffic, local and national radio travel bulletins, electronic road signs and mobile apps.