A man has died after getting into trouble while kite surfing off Camber Sands during Storm Floris. The victim is the first confirmed fatality linked to the wild weather battering the UK’s south coast.
Emergency crews were called to the beach just after 3pm today following reports that a kite surfer had been caught in powerful winds and rough seas.
Coastguard rescue teams, paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance Service, and Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART) rushed to the scene. Despite their best efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the location.
The UK Coastguard confirmed their involvement but stated that Sussex Police are now leading the investigation. A spokesperson said: “We were tasked to assist in a multi-agency response this afternoon at Camber Sands. Sussex Police are now leading on this incident.”
The man has not yet been identified, and his next of kin are being informed. A Sussex Police source said: “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.”
Storm Floris has unleashed 70mph winds and dangerous seas along much of southern England. High tides and choppy waters are impacting coastal areas, prompting urgent safety warnings. Authorities had urged people not to enter the sea amid the hazardous conditions.
This heartbreaking death is the first fatal incident tied to Storm Floris, which is expected to continue affecting the coast until Tuesday. Further updates from Sussex Police are awaited as the investigation continues.
Originally published by UKNIP.
