Police have issued a stark warning to the public against entering the sea, following the disappearance of two men off the Devon coast on Christmas morning. The urgent plea comes as a national cold weather health alert remains in force for parts of the UK, including the South West.
Search Called Off for Missing Swimmers
Devon and Cornwall Police were called at 10.25am on 25 December following concerns for people in the water at Budleigh Salterton. An extensive air, sea, and land search was launched for the two men, aged in their 40s and 60s, but was called off in the evening without locating them.
Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar described the incident as "truly tragic". She highlighted that weather warnings had been in place and noted the cancellation of several organised and informal swims. "We urge anyone with plans to go swimming in the sea on Boxing Day not to," she stated emphatically.
Cold Health Alert Extends into Boxing Day
The police warning coincides with an ongoing UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) yellow cold health alert. This alert for the south west of England was activated at 6pm on Christmas Day and is scheduled to remain until midday on 27 December.
The alert signifies a greater risk to life for vulnerable individuals and predicts increased pressure on healthcare services due to the cold conditions. Authorities advise people to check on elderly or at-risk neighbours and relatives.
Frosty but Milder Conditions Forecast
While the cold alert persists, the Met Office indicates that Boxing Day will be somewhat milder than Christmas Day, which was marked by strong winds. Meteorologist Zoe Hutin forecast a largely dry day with sunny spells for many, though some light rain is possible in the South and North West.
"While it will still be breezy, it won't be as windy as Christmas Day," Ms Hutin said. "It's still going to feel chilly, with top temperatures between 6-7C, and in the south it's going to feel closer to 4-5C." She added that a frosty start is expected, with similar conditions anticipated over the weekend and a very low chance of snow.
The combination of ongoing cold weather, recent tragic events, and official warnings underscores the significant risks associated with entering the sea during the winter period. Emergency services continue to stress the importance of heeding safety advice.
