Coastal Tides
Have you ever marvelled at how a coastal landscape can change so dramatically depending on the time of day? How that vast sandy beach you played footie on just a few hours ago has completely disappeared under the waves?
The UK has some of the biggest tidal ranges in the world. That means it can be very easy to get caught out by the tide – and, most dangerously, cut off. The good news is that with some forward planning, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
Know your tides
Tides have an unfair reputation for being unpredictable. Actually, they follow an impressively reliable timetable.
Most coastal areas in the UK have two high tides and two low tides each day. As the tide moves up and down throughout the day, the depth of the water changes.
There are two kinds of tides: spring and neap. Spring tides have greater depth range between high and low water. At high tide, the water comes in further. Neap tides have less variation, so at high tide the water won’t come in as far.
Never make assumptions about tides. Because tide times and heights vary throughout the month, a beach that was clear at 5pm yesterday might be completely covered by the sea at the same time today.
Staying safe
Do your tide-tables
If you’re heading to the beach or a tidal lake or river, take some time to plan your day around the tides. Go to the Met Office to enter your location and find out what time high and low tide will be.
Stay aware
The tide can come in surprisingly quickly. It's important to pay attention to your surroundings so that you don't suddenly find yourself cut off and at risk of drowning in cold, deep water.
Know the danger zones
Be on high alert if you're in a cover or on a headland or muddy estuary flats, as these can be particularly risky spots for tidal cutoffs.
If you are in trouble
What to do in an emergency
If you get cut off by the tide, try to find a safe location and call 999.
If you’re in the water, Float to Live. Read more about Float to Live here.
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