Walkers drenched by waves days after coastguard warning to stay clear

As stormy waves batter Sunderland’s seafront, walkers were pictured being drenched by the spray just days after coastguard teams warned people to stay clear.
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Storm Darcy has hit the North East and the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning in Sunderland for much of the week.

As waves pour over onto the city’s promenade, walkers have been pictured strolling alongside the treacherous sea – with some stopping to take photographs as the waves drench them.

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Weather warnings initially in place for over the weekend have since been extended with snowy and stormy conditions expected until Friday, February 12.

Pair take pictures as waves hit sea walls Picture by North NewsPair take pictures as waves hit sea walls Picture by North News
Pair take pictures as waves hit sea walls Picture by North News

Ahead of the stormy weekend, Sunderland and Seaham’s Coastguard Rescue Teams issued advice to help people keep safe on Friday, February 5, and urged people to call 999 and ask for its service in an emergency – with walkers warned not to risk life and limb by taking selfies.

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A coastguard spokesman said: “No photograph however dramatic is worth risking your life or the lives of others. Please ensure your own safety. Keep off groynes, piers, jetties and harbour walls. Big waves can knock you over in a flash. If you can feel the spray, you’re too close.

“Cliffs can be dangerous and are prone to rockslides and falls at any time. Large rocks, boulders and mud can come crashing down with little or no notice. Please do not go close to cliff edges, stay on designated paths and if at the base, keep away the same distance as the height of the cliff.”

Waves batter promenade near Roker PierWaves batter promenade near Roker Pier
Waves batter promenade near Roker Pier
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Adding: “Waves can be dangerous in the best of weather. Rocks and walls can be slippery, often there’s nothing to grab hold of if you’re caught off balance and rogue waves and strong currents can sweep you out to sea in seconds.

“Keep dogs close and on a lead if you’re on the cliffs or coast. You never know when an interesting smell or wildlife can attract even the best trained dogs. If your dog gets stuck or trapped, call the Coastguard for help, we have teams available at all times, trained for a fast response.”

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