THE COASTGUARD has warned people to “respect the water” after two men died in rough seas and more severe weather on the way.

The Met Office has issued severe weather warnings for wind and rain in Sussex throughout the rest of this week.

Gusts of up to 75mph are predicted across the coastline with winds inland reaching 50-65mph on Wednesday and Thursday.

After the tragedy of Dan Nicholls, 23, and Freddie Reynolds, 24, both from Brighton, who died after getting swept out to sea, the RNLI is urging people to stay safe.

Jade Cohen, a volunteer crewman at the Brighton Lifeboat Station, said: “People must remember to respect the water and do not go near the water’s edge. The waves can cut you off and pull you in.”

A spokesman for the Coastguard said: “Strong winds mean strong waves with the power to knock you off your feet and carry you out to sea. “A cubic metre of water weighs a tonne and often contain debris like rocks and stones that could strike you.

“Heavy rainfall makes the ground slippery and cliff edges liable to collapse. Keep away from cliff edges and clear of cliff bases in case of rock falls. If you do need to go out check the weather conditions before you go and take care particularly when travelling along exposed routes and coastal pathways.”

If anyone is in danger call coastguard on 999.