The investigation into the death of a 69‑year‑old woman, who drowned early Sunday morning in Sztutowo, is underway. She was reportedly swept away by a wave and a counter‑current.
Drowning of the Woman in Sztutowo
Sunday morning, before 8 a.m., the incident unfolded in Sztutowo. The woman was walking waist‑deep in the water. Initial reports indicate that a wave and a reverse current likely swept her away, according to a Żuławy TV Facebook profile. She was pulled from the water by witnesses, CPR was begun, and emergency services arrived, but she could not be saved.
What Are Reverse Currents?
Reverse currents appear wherever waves break. They flow toward the shore and into the sea. If someone attempts to swim in the sea and is caught in such a current, they are pulled deeper, threatening drowning. The current moves at a typical speed of one metre per second, but under favourable conditions it can reach up to 2.5 metres per second, leaving no chance for the person to escape. This is the most common cause of drownings in the Baltic Sea. To escape, one should not swim with the current (toward the shore) but move sideways toward conventional currents that head toward the shore, which offers the best chance of survival.
Drownings in Poland
As of 16 August, 19 people had drowned in Poland that month. In July there were 52 drownings, and in June 31. The of the Chief Police Headquarters advises only certified areas and not entering the water without lifeguards present. “Never swim after alcohol consumption; it reduces reflexes, causes balance problems, and often directly causes drownings; avoid unknown, untested spots; overestimate your swimming skills, and avoid risky behaviours,” the guide says.
