High risk of rip currents on beaches along the Atlantic coast of South Florida throughout this weekend, according to a bulletin from the Miami National Weather Service (NWS).
According to a note issued this Sunday, there is a risk of more than 50% of rip currents being unleashed.
The NWS has warned that “currents can sweep even the best swimmers into deeper water.”
The alert has been issued for the coastal areas of Palm Beach, Miami-Dade and Broward, as they are in the line of greatest risk of rip currents.
Rip currents are characterized by fast and narrow channels of water that tend to move away from the coast, which represents a danger for bathers.
This phenomenon has caused numerous deaths on the beaches of the Sunshine State. It should be noted that in 2023, twelve deaths were recorded due to drowning due to these currents, especially in areas such as Panama City Beach.
Although they can be difficult to spot, there are some signs that can help identify rip currents, such as a band of darker, calmer water between the waves, an area where foam, sediment or floating debris appears to be moving seaward, or a break in the normal wave pattern.
Below we mention some recommendations for bathers to ensure safety on the beaches:
- Always swim near a lifeguard: This ensures a rapid response in the event of an emergency.
- Avoid swimming alone: The company of others can be crucial to getting help quickly.
- Pay attention to the warning signs: Red flags indicate dangerous swimming conditions.
But if you happen to be caught in a rip current:
- Keep calm and float: Don't fight against the current.
- Swim parallel to the coast: Once out of the current, head towards the shore.
- Call for help if you can't escape: Make signals towards the shore to attract attention.
