Millions of Australians know how it feels to be chest-deep in the ocean in the middle of summer and feel that first raindrop smack down onto their head.
Seconds later, the surface of the water is alive with tiny splashes and you have to decide whether to stay in the sea and wait out a summer shower, or call it a day and head to shore.
Although it’s not unusual to see beachgoers braving the waves during a summer downpour, experts are warning Aussies not to tempt fate by staying in the water when summer storms roll in.
“Swimming during storms on Australian beaches can pose several serious risks,” Michael Bonnici, Manager Coastal Safety at Surf Life Saving Australia, told 9news.com.au.
Storms can cause unpredictable currents and powerful rip tides that can sweep even experienced swimmers out to sea, as well as dangerous waves and swell.
Reduced visibility in the water due to storm conditions stirring up sand and debris also makes it harder for swimmers to spot hazards like rocks, debris, and potentially dangerous marine life during a storm.
And then of course there’s the lightning.
”Swimming in open water during a storm, especially in the presence of lightning, is highly dangerous,” Bonnici said.
“Water is a good conductor of electricity, so if lightning strikes the water, swimmers can be electrocuted. In addition to the direct risks in the water, being in or near the ocean during a storm increases the chance of being struck by lightning, which can be fatal.”
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Not only do storms pose direct risks to swimmers in the water, storm conditions like strong winds and rough seas can make it difficult for Lifesavers to rescue swimmers in distress.
Australians are therefore urged to get out of the water and stay out when storms are on the forecast, even if conditions seem safe at a glance.
“Storms can change rapidly, leading to unexpected shifts in wind, rain, and waves,” Bonnici said.
“Swimmers may find themselves caught in worsening conditions without enough time to safely leave the water.”
