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The
English Channel a body of water between England and France that connects
the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. With the length of about 563 km and
width ranging between 34-160 km, the English Channel is the world's busiest
sea passage. About 600 vessels sail through or across the Strait of Dover
daily.However, all boats are frequently alerted over the radio whenever
there are swimmers in the water.
Most geologists believe that Great Britain and France were joined by a low-lying
plain at the end of the Ice Age, about 10,000 years ago. They estimate that
about 7000 years ago, large amounts of ice melted nearby. The water from
the melting ice raised the level of the sea, flooding the low-lying plain
and creating the English Channel.
The water temperature of the Channel is about 60°F but can go as low
as 52°F. An average swimming pool has a temperature ranging from 82°F
to 86°F.A battle with the rough sea currents & strong winds from
the North Sea is a common phenomenon in the English Channel. About 25 dense
fogs occur in the channel annually.
The English Channel has long been a challenge for swimmers. I read in a
book last night that less people have swum the English Channel than have
been in outer space! In 1875, Matthew Webb of Great Britain made the first
recorded crossing of the Channel, swimming from England to France in 21
hours 45 minutes. He sipped warm brandy while swimming breaststroke the
whole way. |
