As the UK swelters in a record-breaking heatwave, experts are sounding the alarm on a hidden danger lurking beneath the surface: cold water shock. Despite the scorching temperatures, many Brits are heading to beaches, lakes, and rivers, unaware of the risks of sudden and involuntary cold water shock, which can be fatal even for strong swimmers.

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The Met Office warns that anyone can be affected by cold water shock, regardless of age, fitness, or swimming ability. Even on a hot day, the sea, rivers, and lakes in the UK can remain cold enough to trigger this reaction, with sea temperatures around the UK typically ranging from 9°C to 13°C in May.

When you first enter cold water , your body instantly reacts, causing an involuntary gasp, which can lead to inhaling water, the Met Office explained. Your breathing rate increases rapidly, and your heart rate spikes, causing panic, disorientation, and even hyperventilation, making it difficult or impossible to swim.

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Despite the risks, many Brits are heading to beaches, lakes, and rivers, unaware of the dangers of cold water shock. the Met Office advises swimming at a lifeguarded beach, checking the weather, wearing appropriate gear, wearing brightly coloured swimwear, and practicing floating to stay safe when outdoor swimming.

Even strong swimmers can be overwhelmed by cold water shock, the Met Office warned. the initial effects typically last for around 90 seconds, during which time it's crucial to stay calm and avoid unnecessary movement. If you're planning an outdoor swim amid the heatwave, the Met Office advises knowing your limits, and never pushing yourself to swim further than you're comfortable with.

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The Met Office warns that it's crucial to learn to recognise the signs that you're getting too cold. Shivering, weakness, disorientation , shortness of breath, or taking in water are all signs that it's time to get out. Once out of the water, warm up immediately with dry clothes and a hot drink. A brisk walk can also help raise your body temperature.

The May heatwave may have claimed its tenth swimming victim as another person has been reported missing after entering the water, as 18,000 suffer water shortages amid the 31C heat. Fears were sparked yesterday after a young boxer went missing in Swanscombe, Kent, at around 2.15pm.

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The heatwave has claimed the lives of at least nine others in incidents in the sea and in lakes during the Bank Holiday heatwave. Seven teenagers, a grandfather in his 60s, and a woman in her 70s are known to have died - including two teenagers pulled from the water yesterday.

The Met Office has warned that the heatwave is not over yet, and the risks of cold water shock will continue to pose a threat to swimmers until the temperatures drop.