As the UK experiences a record-breaking heatwave, experts are warning of the dangers of cold water shock, a sudden and involuntary response that can occur when the body is immersed in water below 15°C. Despite the hot weather, many Brits are heading to beaches, lakes and rivers, but scientists are cautioning that the water can be cold enough to trigger this reaction, which can be fatal. In this article, we explore the risks of cold water shock and provide tips on how to stay safe when outdoor swimming.
The UK is in the midst of a spring heatwave, with parts of the country hitting record-breaking highs of 35°C this week. In the hopes of finding some relief from the relentless heat, many Brits have headed to beaches, lakes and rivers.
However, while cold water might look refreshing, it can pose serious risks, scientists have warned. As well as drowning, one of the most dangerous risks associated with British water is cold water shock. This is a sudden and involuntary response that occurs when your body is unexpectedly immersed in water below 15°C - and in extreme cases, it can prove fatal. Worryingly, the Met Office warns that anyone can be affected - even if you're a strong swimmer.
Even on a hot day, the sea, rivers, and lakes in the UK can remain cold enough to trigger this reaction, it explained. It's a physiological response that can affect anyone, regardless of age, fitness, or swimming ability.
In May, sea temperatures around the UK typically range from around 9°C to 13°C. While this doesn't sound that cold, for reference, the average heated swimming pool is kept between 26°C and 29°C. When you first enter cold water - whether it's the sea, a lake, or a river - your body instantly reacts. The sudden cooling of the skin causes an involuntary gasp, which can lead to inhaling water, the Met Office explained.
Your breathing rate increases rapidly, and your heart rate spikes. This can cause panic, disorientation, and even hyperventilation, making it difficult or impossible to swim. If you regularly swim, you might think you're immune to cold water shock.
However, the experts caution that this is most definitely not the case. Pictured: swimmers at Margate beach on 26 May. To stay safe when outdoor swimming, the experts recommend swimming at a lifeguarded beach, checking the weather, wearing appropriate gear, wearing brightly coloured swimwear, and practicing floating. Even strong swimmers can be overwhelmed by cold water shock, the Met Office warned.
The initial effects typically last for around 90 seconds, during which time it's crucial to stay calm and avoid unnecessary movement. If you're planning an outdoor swim amid the heatwave, the Met Office advises knowing your limits, and never pushing yourself to swim further than you're comfortable with. It added: Learn to recognise the signs that you're getting too cold. Shivering, weakness, disorientation, shortness of breath, or taking in water are all signs that it's time to get out.
Once out of the water, warm up immediately with dry clothes and a hot drink. A brisk walk can also help raise your body temperature. The May heatwave may have claimed its tenth swimming victim as another person has been reported missing after entering the water, as 18,000 suffer water shortages amid the 31C heat. Fears were sparked yesterday after a young boxer went missing in Swanscombe, Kent, at around 2.15pm.
Emergency services scrambled to the scene at Galley Hill Road after concerns were raised for a well-known local boxer who had entered the water near Northfleet. A major operation is underway as divers and officers remain at the scene. It follows the deaths of at least nine others in incidents in the sea and in lakes during the Bank Holiday heatwave.
Seven teenagers, a grandfather in his 60s and a woman in her 70s are known to have died - including two teenagers pulled from the water yesterday
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