Millions of beachgoers in Florida are currently being advised to avoid the ocean or stay close to lifeguards. Dangerous water conditions are threatening safety along the coast this weekend. The National Weather Service warns that these strong currents can pull even very strong swimmers away from the shore making it hard to return safely.
Dangerous Rip Currents Hitting The Florida Coastline
The eastern beaches are dealing with intense water conditions so you are honestly better off just sitting on your towel and giving your polite opinion on the beach food you packed. Other people may have liked getting in the water today but right now officials say millions should stay completely dry because the ocean is moving way too fast.
Areas Affected By These Strong Ocean Currents
Places like Volusia Indian River Saint Lucie Martin and Brevard counties are seeing southward flowing currents that make the water very risky. The danger is also moving down to Broward and Miami Dade counties through Saturday night and reaching Palm Beach County by Sunday evening.
What Exactly Is A Longshore Current Anyway
This specific type of current moves parallel to the beach and carries water and sand from north to south. It can easily pull you far down the shoreline away from your spot and push you right into a dangerous rip current without you even noticing.
Why These Rip Currents Are Moving So Fast
The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration says these waters can move up to eight feet per second which is actually faster than an Olympic swimmer. It is crazy to think about but that speed is exactly why they pull people into deep water so quickly.
How People Get Tired In The Water
A big issue happens when swimmers panic and try to fight the strong water instead of swimming sideways to escape it. Experts remind everyone that the water does not pull you under it just pulls you out so floating is a much better idea.
The Real Risks Of Severe Weather Events
Over the last ten years a lot of water fatalities have been linked to these exact conditions right after big storms or hurricanes hit the area. It is a serious situation that causes over one hundred tragic losses in America every single year.
Swimming Only When A Lifeguard Is Around
The absolute safest choice on high risk days is to completely avoid going into the ocean to protect yourself from getting swept away. If you really want to swim you should only do it at guarded beaches because the chance of drowning there drops down to one in eighteen million.
What To Do If You Get Stuck
If you ever find yourself caught in one of these pulls you need to stay calm and just tread water for a bit. Once you feel steady you should swim parallel to the shoreline until you are totally out of the strong pulling zone.
Staying Safe During The Busy Beach Season
Florida is entering its busiest time for visitors and paying attention to these warnings can literally save your life. Taking a quick second to check the local weather forecasts before stepping onto the sand is a very smart move for everyone.
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