More than 100 people were rescued along a stretch of north Wales coastline on what was a very busy day for HM Coastguard.
On Saturday, 9 September, the hottest day of the year so far, the Coastguard was alerted to reports that 25 people were cut off by the tide in Rhyl.
When assets arrived at the scene to help those stranded however, the urgency of the incident had escalated. Around 120 beachgoers were trapped on sandbanks.
With gullies formed and no way back to the shore on foot, it was up to HM Coastguard and the RNLI to get everyone back to safety as quickly as possible.
At the scene just after 4pm, Rhyl and Flint Coastguard Rescue Teams and an inshore lifeboat from Rhyl RNLI were ready to help with the challenging operation, alongside North Wales Police.
The inshore lifeboat recovered everyone to safety before the sandbanks were submerged by water. No medical assistance was required.
Coastal Operations Area Commander Mike Buratti said: “Saturday was a very busy day for the Coastguard and witnessing that many people cut off by the tide was unbelievable. Luckily we managed to get everyone back to the main beach within 90 minutes.
“Incidents like this just show how incredible yet dangerous the sea can be. It is so important to check tide times, keep an eye on which direction the tide is heading, and give yourself enough time to get back to shore.
“It’s great to see everyone enjoying the hot weather but it’s essential to be prepared too. Being cut off by the tide isn’t an uncommon incident at this time of year, but it’s an easy one to avoid.”
If you’re ever in danger or spot someone else in trouble at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
