Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and RNLI urge caution as Storm Austen approaches
Friday 23 October 2026
The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI are urging the public to put safety first over the October Bank Holiday weekend as Storm Austen approaches, bringing the potential for strong winds, heavy rain and hazardous coastal conditions to parts of Ireland.
With the clocks going back, daylight hours shortening and sea temperatures continuing to fall, the three organisations are reminding people to take extra care when visiting the coast, swimming, or enjoying outdoor activities near inland and coastal waters.
The warning comes following a record-breaking summer for search and rescue incidents, with the organisations also acknowledging the tremendous efforts of frontline emergency service personnel, lifeguards, rescue volunteers and rescue teams who worked tirelessly throughout an exceptionally demanding season.
As the bank holiday weekend gets underway, members of the public are being advised to check local weather forecasts and tide times before heading out, particularly if planning coastal walks or visits to exposed shorelines.
Strong winds and heavy rain can create dangerous conditions along cliffs, seafronts and piers. Walkers are advised to keep well back from cliff edges and unstable ground, remain alert to the risk of being cut off by incoming tides, carry a fully charged mobile phone and let someone know their plans before setting out.
Swimmers are also being urged to exercise particular caution as the weather deteriorates and water temperatures drop. Swimming should be avoided during stormy conditions or whenever strong winds, waves or currents make entering the water unsafe.
With the lifeguard season now over and darkness arriving earlier, anyone planning a swim should choose a locally recognised safe swimming area, avoid swimming alone and ensure they are out of the water before nightfall.
Cold water presents additional dangers, including cold-water shock, hypothermia and a rapid reduction in swimming ability. Swimmers are encouraged to shorten their time in the water as temperatures fall and wear suitable equipment, including a wetsuit, brightly coloured swimming cap and tow float.
The three organisations are reminding everyone that conditions can change quickly and that even familiar locations can become dangerous in poor weather. Taking a few simple precautions before heading out can help prevent incidents and reduce the risk to both members of the public and those who may be called upon to assist them.
Anyone who sees a person in difficulty in the water or along the coast, or suspects someone may be in trouble, should immediately dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard. Those with marine VHF radio can also raise the alarm on Channel 16.
As Ireland heads into the October Bank Holiday weekend, the message from the Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI is clear: check the conditions, know your limits and always put safety first.
