RNLI issues safety alert as two‑metre swell forecast at Coldingham Bay this weekend

Stronger surf expected on 18–19 July at Borders' lifeguarded beach

Visitors to the Berwickshire coast are being urged to take extra care at Coldingham Bay this weekend after RNLI lifeguards warned of a two‑metre swell forecast on 18 and 19 July. The charity has asked beachgoers to heed advice from the on-duty team and to follow the established flag system that marks out safer areas for different activities.

Lifeguard patrols are currently in place at Coldingham Bay between 10am and 6pm, one of only a small number of Scottish beaches to have a dedicated service. With conditions predicted to build through the weekend, the RNLI says choosing a lifeguarded beach and staying within designated zones will reduce the risk of being caught out by surf or currents.

Flag system and shared water guidance

Senior Lifeguard Rose underlined the importance of recognising the coloured flags set out each morning, which change in response to the sea state and usage through the day. Areas for swimming and bodyboarding are marked with red and yellow flags, while zones for hard craft such as surfboards, paddleboards and kayaks are indicated by black and white flags. A red flag signifies that entering the water is unsafe.

"Always swim or bodyboard between the red and yellow flags... When the red flag is flying, please do not enter the water as the lifeguards have decided the conditions are too dangerous."

Rose added that, should waves be breaking, swimmers should stay within their depth and remain aware of drift caused by currents. Anyone who realises they are being carried along or out from shore is advised not to panic and to seek to wade if possible.

Practical steps for a safer visit

With a short-lived swell expected to peak on Sunday, the RNLI has repeated simple measures that can prevent incidents from escalating:

• Choose a lifeguarded beach and follow directions from the lifeguard team.
• Use the red and yellow flagged area for swimming and bodyboarding.
• Keep hard craft to the black and white flagged zone and out of the swim area.
• If caught in a current, try to stand and wade; if out of depth, lie on your back, keep your ears in the water, raise a hand and call for help.
• Ask lifeguards for local advice on conditions before entering the sea.

The RNLI notes that even when air temperatures are warm, sea conditions on the south-east coast can change quickly. Visitors unfamiliar with Coldingham Bay’s shoreline are urged to speak to the patrol for localised guidance on rips, shore breaks and the safest entry and exit points.

Coldingham Bay’s role in Borders coastal safety

Coldingham Bay remains a focal point for seaside visits in the Scottish Borders and is among the relatively few beaches in Scotland to benefit from an RNLI lifeguard presence. The patrol’s daily set‑up—positioning of flags, surveillance of the water and public briefings—adapts to swell height, wind and tide. The anticipated two‑metre surf height this weekend is expected to increase both wave energy and the potential for strong currents, particularly around sandbanks and channel features.

With higher-than-usual surf drawing both experienced water users and families to the shoreline, lifeguards are asking everyone to consider their own ability, keep children within arm’s reach near the waterline and to check in with the team before attempting paddle sports or swimming beyond waist depth.

When to stay out of the water

The charity stresses that a red flag means no swimming, regardless of experience. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly as the swell builds through the day or as the tide turns. If conditions are deemed hazardous, the safest choice is to remain onshore and seek advice on when it may be appropriate to re-enter the water. As Rose put it:

"If there are breaking waves, stay within your depth and be aware of how you are drifting with the currents... If you’re out of your depth, or need help, keep hold of your board or float on your back with your ears submerged, raise a hand and shout for help; a lifeguard will come to you."

Patrol times and location

Lifeguards will be on duty at Coldingham Bay during the following times:

Beach users are encouraged to approach the lifeguard unit on arrival for the latest safety advice, to identify the flagged zones for the day, and to report any concerns immediately.