Bournemouth Beach is a popular destination for beachgoers seeking to escape the heat, especially during heatwaves. In the past, the beach has seen an influx of visitors during hot spells, with sun worshippers thronging to the area. The beach has even seen “amber” levels of visitors during certain days, with tens of thousands more expected to come to the area over the next few days.
Understanding the Bournemouth Beach Heatwave
During a heatwave in June 2022, the temperature peaked at 27°C (80.6°F) in Bournemouth at 15:00 BST, making it the hottest day of the year in the UK for the third day in a row. The UK Health Security Agency issued a level two alert for southern and central England, meaning the temperature could affect the public’s health.
Measures Taken by the Council
The council has taken measures to prepare for the influx of visitors during heatwaves. These measures include:
- Bringing in a beach check app
- Installing security cameras
- Setting up a hub for emergency services
- Deploying more rangers
The council has also scaled up its services in preparation for the hot spell, with more seafront litter bins, toilets, and water taps in place.
The Beach Check App
In addition to these measures, the council has developed a free app that shows beachgoers which areas are crowded, gives the location of public toilets and lifeguards, and says which areas dogs can use. This app can be a valuable tool for beachgoers looking to avoid overcrowded areas and stay safe during their visit to Bournemouth Beach.
Potential Issues During Heatwaves
It is important to note that during past heatwaves, the relaxation of restrictions has led to issues such as:
- Roads being gridlocked
- Vast amounts of litter
- Overcrowding
- Wild camping
- Anti-social behavior in the resort
However, the council has stated that looking back, those were “pretty special circumstances” and that it is prepared for the influx of visitors during heatwaves.
Preparing for Your Visit
If you’re planning to visit Bournemouth Beach during a heatwave, here are some tips to help you stay safe and enjoy your visit:
- Download the beach check app to stay informed about crowd levels and facilities.
- Arrive early to avoid the peak crowds and find a suitable spot on the beach.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sun protection to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
- Be mindful of your surroundings and respect the environment by disposing of your litter properly.
- Follow the instructions of the council’s staff and emergency services to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Bournemouth Beach is a popular destination for beachgoers seeking to escape the heat during heatwaves. The council has taken measures to prepare for the influx of visitors, including bringing in additional services and developing a free app to help beachgoers stay safe and informed. However, it is important for beachgoers to be aware of the potential issues that can arise during heatwaves and to take steps to stay safe and respect the environment during their visit.
References:
– BBC News – Bournemouth beach heatwave: Thousands of parking tickets issued
– BBC News – Bournemouth beach heatwave: Council prepares for influx of visitors
– YouTube – Bournemouth beach heatwave: Thousands flock to the coast