British tourist missing after rip current sweep at Bali beach

A British tourist is feared drowned after being swept away by a rip current at Legian Beach in Bali on Wednesday afternoon. Harrison Edward Nada Kontounas, 23, was swimming with two friends in a red-flagged section when a strong current dragged him away from the shore. The two friends managed to reach the beach, but Kontounas did not.

Wind was gusting around 30 km/h and water conditions were described as rough, limiting the ability of rescuers to reach the swimmer by water. Denpasar Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas) chief I Nyoman Sidakarya said the alert was received at 18:40 WITA and five SAR personnel were dispatched to coordinate with witnesses and other elements of the operation. He said the initial steps included confirming details with witnesses and organizing a search along the coastline, but heavy surf and unfavorable conditions prevented a water-based entry on Wednesday evening.

Officials said the search would continue in the morning if Kontounas was not found. "If he is not found tomorrow morning, we can determine our next action plan," Sidakarya said.

Nearby lifeguards and local residents described the challenging conditions and the broad warnings about Bali's beaches. A friend posted on a Facebook group for Australians traveling to Bali, writing, "Close friend was swept out to sea by a riptide today from Kuta beach at 5pm local time. He has not been found."

Residents and visitors have long warned that even swimming within lifeguard boundaries can be hazardous due to rip currents, undertow and whirlpools along Kuta and Legian beaches. One eyewitness, Abbey Maree, wrote online that it was "a heartbreaking afternoon on the beach watching lifeguards searching for hours to find him." She described rough water and wished for more jet skis, boats or even a helicopter to support the search, adding that local search efforts differ from those in other countries.

Kuta Beach sits adjacent to Legian Beach, where the incident occurred, and the area is frequently cited by travelers for its surf but also as a warning zone due to currents and unpredictable tides.

Authorities urged caution to beachgoers. "We urge you to be careful when engaging in outdoor activities, including beach tourism," Sidakarya said.