Mobile, AL – Beachgoers across coastal Alabama and northwest Florida are being warned of dangerous rip currents expected to peak from Thursday night through Friday, according to the National Weather Service Mobile/Pensacola office.
The agency’s latest three-day rip current outlook, issued early Thursday, places a high risk for beaches from Dauphin Island and Gulf Shores to Pensacola Beach, Navarre, and Destin through Friday night. The risk is forecast to ease to a moderate level by Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service, life-threatening rip currents can quickly pull even experienced swimmers away from shore. The agency urges visitors to swim near lifeguards, follow local flag warnings, and avoid entering the water under red flags.
Meteorologists say the increased surf and strong currents are linked to onshore winds and elevated wave activity along the Northern Gulf Coast. Conditions are expected to gradually improve over the weekend, but swimmers should remain cautious as moderate hazards persist through Saturday night.
If caught in a rip current, officials advise swimmers to relax and float—never try to fight the current. Instead, swim parallel to the shoreline until free, and wave and yell for help if unable to escape.
This elevated risk affects popular beaches in Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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