Watching the webcam

Gazing out at the world from the confines of my Man Cave, it’s pretty clear that Storm Eunice is getting closer. The wind is gradually strengthening and grey clouds are scudding across the skyline. I’m more than happy to sit this one out, but through the magic of technology it’s clear that not everyone is happy to stay at home.

I’ve been watching a BBC webcam based in the Somerset coastal town in Clevedon and literally scores of people have turned up to watch the action, some bringing their children and their dogs and of course their cameras. The grungy waters of the Bristol Channel are battering the sea walls, with some waves lapping the pavement and splashing into the road. I cannot pretend that if I didn’t live in Clevedon I wouldn’t be tempted to join the people gawping at the power of nature. But I don’t and I’m not.

It’s 9.45am now and the wind here in South Gloucestershire is really getting up and, judging from the webcam, it’s far worse in Clevedon. Every time a large wave tops the sea wall, I think to myself, “Please, parents: take those children home. Why take even the slightest chance on a massive rogue wave…oh, let’s not go there. But the worse the storm gets, the more people are arriving.

Five minutes later and it really feels like some people are literally risking their lives. One bloke has just edged down the walkway that leads to what passes for a beach in Clevedon. He’s dashed back now, clearly soaked to the skin and as he does so, a couple arrive with a young toddler. They aren’t even holding his hand as they splash through the spray. I’m sure everything will be fine but there’s a giant WHAT IF? dominating my thoughts.

Now, I can’t help thinking that it would be a good idea if the authorities closed the area off. There are more people than at any time this morning. And if – if is a big small word – someone slips down the walkway to the beach, they are almost certainly going to die. No lifeboat would be able to save them. You should see the waves now. Jesus Christ. Go home people; go home.