Residents in Southend-on-Sea should prepare for a wet and chilly week, with RNLI forecasts predicting rain every day from Tuesday 12 May through Saturday 16 May 2026. Temperatures are expected to drop to a minimum of 4°C, and those heading to the coast are advised to dress warmly as wind chill will make conditions feel much colder.
According to the Met Office, the air will feel particularly sharp during the early mornings, with the temperature feeling like 1°C on Tuesday and 3°C on Wednesday and Thursday. As the week progresses, the region may also see overnight frosts starting from Thursday through Saturday.
The Southend-on-Sea lifeboat station, which operates from two boathouses along the 1.25-mile-long pier, is urging visitors to stay cautious near the water. Even as the air cools, the charity warns that sea temperatures remain below 15°C, a level they define as cold water. This can cause cold water shock, which may significantly affect a person’s breathing and movement if they enter the water unexpectedly.
For those planning trips to the seafront or the pier this week, the RNLI advises checking the latest weather and tide times before setting out. The organisation also encourages the public to choose lifeguarded beaches and to familiarise themselves with the Float to Live safety guidance.
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