Melbourne, FL – Coastal areas in Florida are under high rip current risks and dangerous surf conditions, with advisories in place through Friday and Saturday. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for several counties, including Coastal Volusia, Palm Beach, Brevard, and Indian River, urging residents and visitors to take precautions.
According to the National Weather Service, rough surf and rip currents can be especially hazardous for swimmers. The advisory warns that rip currents can swiftly pull even the most experienced swimmers out into deeper waters. In addition to dangerous swimming conditions, there is potential for localized beach erosion.
The high surf advisory remains in effect until 2 a.m. EDT Friday, with breaking waves ranging from 4 to 6 feet along the coast of Palm Beach County. The high rip current risk will continue through Saturday morning. Authorities are advising beachgoers to stay out of the water, particularly in areas near jetties or piers, where rip currents are more likely to form.
For safety, it is important to heed beach patrol flags and lifeguard advice, and always swim near designated lifeguard stations. If caught in a rip current, swimmers should stay calm and float, avoiding swimming directly against the current.
