Miami, FL – Beachgoers across South Florida are being urged to use extreme caution today as a high risk of rip currents continues along the Atlantic Coast beaches, according to the National Weather Service.
According to the National Weather Service in Miami, the high rip current risk will persist through this evening due to breezy to gusty southeasterly winds. Forecasters estimate there is a greater than 70% chance of dangerous rip currents, making swimming conditions hazardous even for experienced swimmers.
The elevated risk affects Atlantic beaches throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties, including popular spots such as Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach, Hollywood Beach, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach.
Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore. Officials strongly advise the public to avoid entering the ocean if possible. If swimming, beachgoers should only enter the water at guarded beaches, pay close attention to posted flags and signage, and follow instructions from lifeguards.
The National Weather Service emphasizes the message: “When in doubt, don’t go out.” If caught in a rip current, swimmers are advised to remain calm, float to conserve energy, and swim parallel to the shoreline until free from the current.
Conditions may appear deceptively calm at times, but rip currents can still be present. Parents are urged to keep a close watch on children near the water’s edge.
The rip current threat is expected to ease once winds diminish, but beachgoers should continue checking daily forecasts before heading to the coast.
