FALMOUTH residents and visitors have been warned about travelling to the coast as a huge swell is forecast to hit exposed areas from Wednesday onwards.

Forecasters are predicting an even bigger swell to hit Europe and the UK on Wednesday and Thursday, with challenging conditions then set to continue for the rest of the week.

This swell is predicted to be dangerous in exposed areas of Cornwall and Devon, but the effects will create rough conditions along the south coast of Devon and into Dorset, so those heading to the coast are being urged to take extra care.

Steve Instance, RNLI Water Safety Lead for the South West said:

"Experts have been watching weather systems out in the Atlantic for the last few weeks to calculate the impact on swell conditions hitting Europe and the UK. Forecasts at the moment are predicting a huge swell to arrive on Wednesday and into Thursday combined with strong winds"

Sea conditions are set to be extremely dangerous and its likely most beaches will be red-flagged with huge waves, strong rip currents and increased tidal surges.

The RNLI added:

"If you are tempted to enter the water, please go to one of the 27 lifeguarded beaches and listen to their advice, if there are no flags then there are no lifeguards. Do not enter the water if the red flag is flying, it only takes seconds to get caught out in conditions like these.

"While we expect stormy conditions during the winter, this particular swell is hitting in the middle of half term when the coastal area is busy with visitors to the region and locals off school. We would advise anglers, coastal walkers and anyone hoping to watch the surf to do so at a safe distance from the water."

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