A man has tragically died kite surfing off Camber Sands today, caught in wild winds whipped up by Storm Floris. This marks the first confirmed fatality linked to the severe weather battering the UK’s southern coast.
Emergency crews were scrambled just after 3pm following reports that the man got into trouble while battling powerful gusts and rough seas. Coastguard Rescue Teams, South East Coast Ambulance paramedics, and specialist Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART) rushed to the beach. Despite frantic life-saving efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
“We were tasked to assist in a multi-agency response this afternoon at Camber Sands. Sussex Police are now leading on this incident,” said a UK Coastguard spokesperson.
Sussex Police confirmed the tragedy and stated they are leading the investigation. The man has not yet been formally identified, with next of kin being informed.
“We are aware of a fatal incident involving a water sports enthusiast in Camber Sands this afternoon. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances,” a Sussex Police source said.
Storm Floris has unleashed brutal conditions across the south of England, with wind speeds topping 70mph and dangerous waves smashing against the coast. Authorities had warned people to stay out of the water amid the severe weather.
This grim death serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by Storm Floris, which will continue to lash coastal areas into Tuesday. Further updates from Sussex Police on this investigation are awaited.
Originally published by UKNIP.
