Families, groups of friends and tourists packed the seafront throughout the day, with many making the most of the sunshine by swimming in the sea, sunbathing, and queuing for ice creams and drinks along the promenade.
The hot weather created a festival atmosphere across the city, with the beach, Palace Pier and beachfront bars busy from late morning onwards as temperatures climbed towards 30C.
But while many enjoyed the conditions, Sussex Police warned emergency services were facing increasing pressure amid the warm spell.
On Saturday evening, the force said it had already seen ‘significantly increased numbers of people’, travelling to beaches and beauty spots across Sussex districts as temperatures continued to rise.
Police also revealed officers had dealt with ‘multiple missing children’ during the day, with drone teams deployed to help search from the air.
The force said: “Thankfully, all incidents were resolved safely, but it highlights how quickly people can become separated in busy environments.”
Officers warned another busy period for emergency services was expected for the remainder of the bank holiday weekend and urged people to take precautions while enjoying the weather.
Sussex Police advised the public to stay hydrated, wear suitable sun protection and take extra care around open water, coastal areas and rivers.
The force warned that conditions around the sea can ‘change quickly’, particularly with large crowds gathering at beaches during periods of hot weather.
The warning comes as temperatures of 30C or higher are forecast across Sussex in the coming days.
A UK Government amber heat-health alert covering Sussex also remains in place until Wednesday, May 27, with health officials warning the prolonged hot conditions could place vulnerable people at greater risk.
1. Thousands flock to coast as temperatures sour during bank holiday weekend
Families, groups of friends and tourists packed the seafront throughout the day, with many making the most of the sunshine by swimming in the sea, sunbathing, and queuing for ice creams and drinks along the promenade. Photo: EDDIE MITCHELL
2. Thousands flock to coast as temperatures sour during bank holiday weekend
Families, groups of friends and tourists packed the seafront throughout the day, with many making the most of the sunshine by swimming in the sea, sunbathing, and queuing for ice creams and drinks along the promenade. Photo: EDDIE MITCHELL
3. Thousands flock to coast as temperatures sour during bank holiday weekend
Families, groups of friends and tourists packed the seafront throughout the day, with many making the most of the sunshine by swimming in the sea, sunbathing, and queuing for ice creams and drinks along the promenade. Photo: EDDIE MITCHELL
4. Thousands flock to coast as temperatures sour during bank holiday weekend
Families, groups of friends and tourists packed the seafront throughout the day, with many making the most of the sunshine by swimming in the sea, sunbathing, and queuing for ice creams and drinks along the promenade. Photo: EDDIE MITCHELL