Rip current statement for Central West Florida until Monday evening
At 2:15 a.m. Monday, the National Weather Service issued a rip current declaration in effect until 7 p.m. The declaration covers Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties.
Caught in a Rip: How to Stay Safe
Rip currents, fast-moving channels of water that flow away from shore at surf beaches, can be dangerous. Understanding how to react when caught in one is crucial. The National Weather Service offers these tips to save lives:
Stay calm – they won’t drag you down:
Don’t panic: rip currents won’t pull you underwater.
Don’t swim against the tide:
Trying to swim straight to the beach when caught in a rip current is futile and exhausting. The current is too strong. Instead, swim parallel to the shore and away from the grip of the rip current.
Call for help if necessary:
If you feel that you cannot reach the shore, relax, face the shore and call or signal for help.
Look for supervised beaches for added safety:
If possible, choose beaches supervised by lifeguards. Their trained eyes and quick response can be a lifesaver in a water emergency.
Never swim alone on unsupervised beaches:
If you choose to swim at beaches without lifeguards, make it a rule to never swim alone. Always bring a friend and make sure that person has a cell phone to call 911 in an emergency.
Rip currents are formidable natural forces, but knowing how to react can significantly increase your chances of safely navigating these difficult waters. Stay informed, stay vigilant and prioritize safety when enjoying surfing.
Source: The National Weather Service
This automated article was produced using artificial intelligence and publicly available data. The model article was created by The Times. Do you have any comments on the information contained here? Email us at weather-feedback@tampabay.com
