Mobile, AL – Beachgoers across the central Gulf Coast are being warned of life-threatening rip currents through early next week, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The five-day outlook, issued Friday, highlights a “high risk” of rip currents at Alabama beaches including Dauphin Island, Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, as well as Florida beaches from Pensacola to Destin. Conditions are expected to remain dangerous through at least Tuesday, October 7.
According to the NWS, a high risk means life-threatening rip currents are likely in the surf zone. Swimmers are urged to avoid entering the water, as currents can quickly pull even strong swimmers away from shore. Officials recommend swimming near lifeguards if entering the water is unavoidable.
Rip currents pose one of the leading weather-related hazards along the Gulf Coast. They are powerful channels of water flowing away from shore, often forming near piers, jetties, and breaks in sandbars. Safety guidance advises beachgoers to remain calm if caught in a current, avoid fighting the pull, and swim parallel to shore until free.
The alert spans Baldwin County, AL, and Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton counties in Florida. With many visitors expected along the coast this weekend, officials stress the importance of monitoring local beach flags and advisories.
Beach conditions and safety tips are available at weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness.
