Large emergency response to reports four people in difficulty in water off Sussex coast

Emergency services are responding to reports that four people have got into difficulty in the water off the Sussex coast.

Multiple ambulances and two air ambulances could be seen in Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, near the RNLI station on Tuesday afternoon.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “Emergency services are currently responding to reports of four people in difficulty in the water close to Shoreham Fort.

“A section of the A259 in Shoreham has been closed as the incident remains ongoing, and we’re urging the public to stay clear of the area in the meantime

“We will provide more information as soon as we are able to.”

The A259 Brighton Road was blocked in both directions from New Road to Kingston Lane because of the incident.

An RNLI spokesman said: “Shoreham RNLI were tasked by HM Coastguard at approximately 3pm on Tuesday 18 August.”

At the scene an ambulance could be seen leaving under a police escort with blue lights flashing.

The South East Coast Ambulance Service also said they were responding to reports that four people needed medical attention after getting into difficulty in the water near Shoreham Harbour.

“We were called shortly after 3pm and have a number of ambulance resources at the scene,” a spokeswoman said.

“We have no further information to share at this time but will provide updates as soon as possible.”

A HM Coastguard spokesman added: “HM Coastguard responded to an incident reported at Shoreham at about 2.45pm on 18 August.

“An HM Coastguard helicopter was sent as well as Littlehampton, Shoreham and Newhaven Coastguard Rescue Teams, and an RNLI lifeboat from Shoreham.

“Sussex Police and South East Coast Ambulance Service also attended.”

  Published: 18/08/2026 by Radio NewsHub