New York, NY – Swimmers heading to Long Island’s south shore and New York City beaches should be alert for moderate rip current risks through Tuesday, as summer crowds pack the waterfront.
According to the National Weather Service New York office, a moderate risk for dangerous rip currents remains in effect for all south-facing beaches from the Rockaways and Jones Beach to Hamptons communities through at least Tuesday evening. Lifeguards and local agencies urge swimmers to stay close to shore, always swim near a staffed lifeguard, and watch for posted beach warning flags.
Long Beach, Robert Moses State Park, and Fire Island are among the most popular spots where rip currents could quickly pull swimmers away from shore. Officials stress the importance of following local patrol instructions and never swimming alone, especially as waves build through the afternoon. Recent years have seen multiple water rescues along this stretch—rip currents are the leading weather-related hazard at New York’s beaches each summer.
Anyone caught in a rip current should not panic: float, wave for help, and swim parallel to shore to escape the current. Beachgoers are also reminded to apply sunscreen, wear hats, and minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with UV levels rated “very high” for the day.
Rip current advisories are expected to continue into Tuesday night, with updates as beach and surf conditions change. Check weather.gov/beach for the latest safety info before heading out.
