The beach east of the Volks Railway Black Rock car park remains inaccessible to the public while forensic work proceeds, and coastguard officials have said they are not searching for anyone else.

Witnesses described rough weather conditions and expressed concern about the risk to swimmers, with some questioning possible causes given the early-morning timing.

Media outlets are seeking further information from Sussex Police as the inquiry continues.

Police are reviewing CCTV from nearby seafront businesses and properties to understand how the women entered the water, under the Operation Leadmore umbrella.

The large cordon around Black Rock beach is expected to remain in place into the evening as inquiries proceed.

Three women were recovered from the sea off Brighton near Madeira Drive after concerns for their welfare were raised around dawn, prompting a major emergency response.

Emergency services on scene included coastguard units, multiple rescue teams, an HM Coastguard helicopter, three RNLI lifeboats, Sussex Police, and the South East Coast Ambulance Service, with a large police presence and cordons reported.

The area along the seafront remains cordoned off for forensic work while investigators pursue answers and CCTV footage is being reviewed under Operation Leadmore to determine how the women came to enter the water.

Local MPs and council leaders described the incident as distressing, stressing careful investigation and sensitivity to those affected as officials seek answers.

Residents and swimmers expressed shock, with authorities and community leaders offering condolences and urging the public to respect the investigation as it continues.

Reports noted a heavy police presence and a cordon around the area, consistent with the ongoing inquiry.

Details on the victims remain limited, with ages and identities not disclosed and no additional information about the investigation provided in initial reports.