In recent days, summer and hot temperatures have precipitated the French from the beaches. A good way to find a little freshness. But be careful to take into account the warnings of the authorities and rescuers. Bathing at sea, even when it seems calm, can however be dangerous, as evidenced by this new drama.
A black Wednesday on the beaches of Hérault
Wednesday June 25, 2025 will remain engraved as a dramatic day for the Hérault coast. Thirteen drownings were identified in a few hours, including that of a 70-year-old man, unfortunately died in Marseillan-Plage. An alert bulletin “dangerous waves “ was however in force since the afternoon.
Since the beginning of the year, five deaths by drowning have already been reported in Hérault, to which are added the 15 victims of the summer of 2024. A heavy assessment which pushed the authorities to sound the alarm.
Why drowning despite weather alerts?
The Hérault prefecture recalls that the Mediterranean, often perceived as calm, can actually prove to be formidable. “Despite its apparent calm and the high temperature of its water, the Mediterranean Sea can be dangerous”she insists. Drafts, caused by swell or sudden winds, can quickly take bathers, even the most experienced.
To prevent other dramas, the prefecture recalls the basic safety rules, often neglected:
- Bathing only in supervised areas, and respecting signage (color flags);
- Never swim alone, especially outside the supervised areas;
- Follow the instructions of the rescuers: inform them of your bathing place;
- Use a flotation equipment, especially for inexperienced swimmers;
- Monitoring children permanently, even in shallow water.
Understand the invisible dangers of the sea
The fact is not new but must be recalled every summer as we had done in a previous article. Certain natural phenomena, little known to the general public, are at the origin of many drownings.
Swell and ripping currents
The swell, formed offshore by the wind, can cause powerful currents that pull the swimmers to the open sea. Contrary to popular belief, waves areas are often less dangerous than calm areas located on the sides. “”The danger is where the water seems calm, because it is the place where it leaves in force towards the sea “Arnaud Froger, specialist in sea safety, explained to us.
Baïnes
These “natural basins”, communes on the relief beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, become trapping in mid-tide. The water accumulates there then suddenly spills by creating a very strong current to the open sea. It is therefore necessary to avoid swimming in these areas when the sea begins to rise.
To do: if taken in the current, swim in parallel with the beach, never against the current, until they find a quieter area.
The edge wave (Shore Break)
Violent, she breaks directly on the sand, causing falls and injuries.
To do: quickly cross this area or squat to avoid loss of balance.
The Run
It is the brutal return of water after a big wave. It can prevent up on the beach and train offshore. In this case, it is advisable to get out of the water before the next wave returns.
The rocks
The waves can project you violently against them. And diving of a rock remains dangerous, even by calm sea. It is imperative to probe the depth before any attempt.
Earth winds
These winds of East, which grow to the open sea, are particularly dangerous for inflatable mattresses or small boats. Avoid any floating object in the sea by earth wind. Also, don’t try to recover a ball or a toy trained offshore.
Recall that each summer, between 400 and 500 people die drowned in France. Last summer, 1,244 drownings were identified, including 350 deadly. Figures reminding that swimming, even in appearance harmless, must always be accompanied by prudence.
© Prefecture of Hérault