Full Breakdown
Search Operation Underway for Missing Swimmers off Devon Coast
12/25/2025, 9:51:05 PM
Incident Overview
On Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, two men are feared missing in the sea off Budleigh Salterton beach in Devon after multiple reports of swimmers in difficulty. Emergency services were alerted at approximately 10:25 AM GMT, prompting a significant response from various agencies, including Devon and Cornwall Police, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, and RNLI lifeboats.
Emergency Response and Search Efforts
Upon arrival, emergency personnel successfully rescued several individuals from the water. Some were checked by paramedics on-site, while one person was transported to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital as a precaution. Despite these efforts, two men remain unaccounted for. A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that the next of kin for one of the missing men has been contacted, while efforts to reach the family of the second man are ongoing.
The search operation involved extensive resources, including Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue Teams, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth, and Torbay, as well as coastguard helicopters. However, the coastguard's search was officially stood down at 5 PM the same day after extensive shoreline and offshore searches.
Weather Conditions and Safety Warnings
The incident occurred amid severe weather warnings issued by the Met Office, which forecast strong and gusty east to northeasterly winds, with peak gusts potentially reaching 65 mph along exposed coasts. The agency also warned of large waves and hazardous conditions, leading to the cancellation of several planned Christmas and Boxing Day swims across Devon and Cornwall. Authorities urged the public to avoid entering the water for safety reasons, particularly at Exmouth, where a Christmas Day swim had been scheduled.
Public Reactions and Criticism
Local residents and visitors expressed concern over the decision of some swimmers to enter the water despite the adverse conditions. Eyewitness accounts described the sea as particularly rough, with waves capable of sweeping individuals off their feet. Some community members criticized the lack of adherence to safety warnings, noting that many organized swims were canceled due to the weather.
Official Statements
Devon and Cornwall Police reiterated the importance of public safety, stating: "A significant amount of emergency service personnel were deployed to the incident, and we ask that people do not enter the water for public safety reasons." The Coastguard also emphasized the need for caution, urging individuals to stay clear of the water while search operations were ongoing.
What's Next
As the search for the missing men continues, authorities are appealing for any information that may assist in locating them. The public is encouraged to contact Devon and Cornwall Police with any relevant details, quoting log number 191 of December 25. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments of weather conditions and safety protocols for future swimming events in the area.
