Hundreds sickened after mysterious toxic cloud engulfs British beach
An unknown haze rolls in from the sea, causing breathing problems among beachgoers
More than 200 people have been treated in hospital after a chemical “haze” descended on beach goers on the East Sussex coastline in southern England on Sunday.
Birling Gap, near the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, was evacuated by emergency services after people complained of breathing difficulties and irritation to their eyes and throats at about 5pm on Sunday.
Police said an unknown “haze” coming from the sea had left people along the coast from Eastbourne to Birling Gap requiring assistance. They warned people in the area to keep doors and windows closed.
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust said: “We became aware of a hazardous cloud moving across from Birling Gap to the Eastbourne area earlier today.
“Six patients initially presented to us with minor symptoms. As at 22.30 hrs, this number has risen to 233 patients being cared for by us at our Eastbourne district general hospital site.
“The patients we are caring for are being decontaminated on site by our trained hospital staff. We are working with East Sussex fire and rescue and being supported on site by Secamb and the police.”