Mobile, AL – Beachgoers along the Northern Gulf Coast are being urged to use caution as rip current risks increase sharply heading into the weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) offices in Jackson, MS, and Mobile, AL, issued alerts Thursday showing conditions escalating from moderate on Friday to high by Saturday across multiple counties.
According to the NWS, beaches from Dauphin Island in Mobile County to Destin in Okaloosa County, Florida, are expected to see dangerous surf by Saturday morning. The 3-day outlook indicates a moderate risk developing Friday and persisting overnight before reaching high levels through Saturday and Saturday night.
Officials caution that rip currents can quickly become life-threatening, even for strong swimmers. Visitors are encouraged to check local beach flags before entering the water and to avoid swimming when red flags are posted.
Increased surf from strengthening onshore winds is expected to drive the risk, forecasters said. Residents and visitors should stay informed of updated advisories through local NWS offices and beach patrols throughout the weekend.
This alert covers Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa Counties, impacting popular destinations such as Gulf Shores, Pensacola Beach, Navarre, and Destin.