Barry Dock RNLI is warning of stronger seas at Whitmore Bay on Tuesday, as the remains of storm Erin send powerful waves our way.
While Barry Island won’t see the extreme surf hitting Cornwall and the west Wales coast, the swell will still push into the Bristol Channel on Tuesday, 26th, combining with spring tides.
That means:
- Seas may look rougher than normal, with stronger surges on the beach.
- Currents will be more powerful, especially around Whitmore Bay, Jackson’s Bay and the Old Harbour.
- Inflatables and paddleboards will be much harder to control.
The lifesaving charity says seas may look rougher than normal, with stronger surges on the beach, with currents expected to be more powerful around Whitmore Bay, Jackson's Bay and the Old Harbour.
Whilst Barry Island is tucked inside the Bristol Channel, it won't see giant Atlantic Waves, but the swell energy still bends in and, when combined with the strong spring tide, it makes local sea conditions riskier than normal.
Bill Kitchen, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Barry Dock RNLI, said: "Even though Barry Island won’t see the giant Atlantic waves forecast further west, the sea here will still be stronger and more unpredictable than usual because of the swell and spring tides. Our advice is simple: swim between the red and yellow flags, keep a close eye on children, and don’t take inflatables into the sea. These small steps make a big difference in keeping everyone safe.”
If you’re heading to the beach:
- Swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards can see you.
- Keep children within arm’s reach.
- Leave inflatables at home.
- If you see someone in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

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