Coastguards were called out after reports of a swimmer in difficulty in the channel at Clevedon - as storms battered the coast.
Clevedon Coastguard Rescue Team was called out at 6.30pm yesterday (Thursday), just as it was going dark, to reports of a swimmer in choppy seas near Clevedon Pier.
Portishead Coastguard Rescue Team was also alerted, alongside Portishead RNLI to conduct a search of the area.
During the search, rescue teams received information that the swimmer may have made it to shore independently and was safe.
Coastguards put out a message on a local swimmers group, to which the individual replied and confirmed they were safe.
The search was then called off.
Yesterday saw strong winds and driving rain batter the region.
The swimmer had gone into the water at high tide, which is the safest time to swim.
Clevedon Coastguard Rescue Team spokesman Andy Hughes said: “There are some people who like to swim in the sea during challenging conditions.
“However anyone doing this has to be a competent swimmer and know what they are going.”
Mr Hughes said that anyone entering the sea in challenging conditions should inform the coastguard.
He said: “Those wanting to swim in those conditions should call the coastguard to advise what they are doing.
“They should be specific about where they plan to swim and tell us what they are wearing.
“It may not stop the team from being called but it will help us plan how we search and what additional resources we call upon.
“We would always prefer to be called and it be a false alarm than not be called and the consequences be fatal.”
Anyone planning to enter the sea in challenging conditions should call 01646 690909 to inform the coastguard.
Anyone who spots someone in trouble along the coast should call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
