Budleigh Salterton, England, December 25, 2024 – Emergency services are scouring the waters off the Devon coast after receiving reports of swimmers in distress, prompting a large-scale rescue operation that overshadowed Christmas Day celebrations for many.
Search Continues for Swimmers off Devon Coast
Rescue teams are working to locate individuals reported to be struggling in the water near Budleigh Salterton.
- Devon and Cornwall Police responded to a call at 10:25 GMT regarding concerns for people in the water.
- Multiple individuals have been safely brought ashore and are receiving medical attention from paramedics.
- Authorities have urged the public to avoid entering the water along the affected coastline.
- The Maritime and Coastguard Agency deployed notable resources, including lifeboats and helicopters.
Devon and cornwall Police were alerted to the situation at 10:25 GMT on Tuesday, December 25, after receiving reports of people experiencing difficulties in the water off Budleigh Salterton beach. The incident quickly escalated,triggering a ample emergency response involving multiple agencies.
What’s happening with the search off the Devon coast? Rescue efforts are underway after reports of swimmers in trouble near Budleigh Salterton, with several people already safely recovered and receiving medical checks.
A number of people have been successfully brought back to shore and are currently being evaluated by paramedics, according to police. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency confirmed the deployment of Exmouth and Beer coastguard Rescue teams, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth and Torbay, and coastguard search and rescue helicopters to assist in the operation. police and ambulance services are also on scene.
earlier in the day, police requested that individuals refrain from participating in a customary Christmas Day swim at Exmouth beach, citing the ongoing emergency response at Budleigh Salterton. the decision was made to prioritize the safety of both swimmers and rescue personnel.
Authorities continue to urge caution and cooperation from the public as they work to ensure the safety of everyone involved. The search remains active as of this reporting.
Why did this happen? Reports indicate swimmers encountered difficulties in the water, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Strong currents and cold water temperatures are potential contributing factors. Who was involved? Devon and Cornwall Police,the Maritime and Coastguard Agency,RNLI lifeboats,and ambulance services responded. Multiple swimmers were reported to be in distress. What occurred? Emergency services launched a large-scale search and rescue operation off Budleigh Salterton beach after receiving reports of swimmers struggling in the water. Several individuals were rescued and are receiving medical attention. How did it end? As of the latest reports, the active search continues, but multiple swimmers have been brought to safety. The incident prompted the cancellation of a planned Christmas Day swim at a nearby beach.
