Summary
A woman died in the English Channel trying to cross in an overloaded dinghy. The incident involved a "catastrophic deflation" of the dinghy, and authorities rescued several people after sending emergency vessels and a helicopter. This highlights the ongoing dangers of crossing the Channel in small boats.
Key Facts
- A woman died while trying to cross the English Channel in an overloaded dinghy.
- The dinghy suffered a "catastrophic deflation" 10 miles off Dover's coast.
- The UK Coastguard responded with a vessel, two lifeboats, and a helicopter.
- Several people were rescued from the water in the incident.
- An investigation is ongoing to determine if another migrant boat reached Kent without being stopped.
- Approximately 500 people reportedly crossed the Channel on the same day.
- French authorities stated that 77 people died attempting the Channel crossing in 2024.
- Over 30,000 people have crossed the Channel in 2025, and more than 50,000 since July 2024.
