FIRST ALERT: Dangerous, Strong Rip Currents Expected This Weekend

Published : Aug. 17, 2024, by HERE News Network

Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Swimmers are being warned of dangerous surf conditions and powerful rip currents expected along the coastline this coming weekend. The hazardous conditions emerge due to swells originating from Hurricane Ernesto.

A high rip current risk has been anticipated and authorities have issued an alert, indicating that the surf zone will present life-threatening conditions. Residents and visitors are cautioned to refrain from entering the water under any circumstance for their safety.

Rip Currents: Silent, Yet Deadly

Rip currents are powerful, channeled flows of water that pull away from the shoreline. They traverse from the shoreline, through the surf zone, and past the breaking wave line. This current can pull even the strongest of swimmers out, posing significant danger to anyone who meets their path.

Surviving a Rip Current

If one ever finds themselves trapped in a rip current, the key is to stay calm and yell for help. Trying to swim against the current can quickly exhaust even the strongest swimmer leading to drowning. It’s best to stay afloat and conserve energy by treading water or floating.

If one has the strength and sense of direction, swimming perpendicular to the current until escaping its pull, followed by swimming back to the shore is recommended. If it’s not possible to escape the current, then treading water or floating until help arrives is the best option.

It is important to always be vigilant when in or near the water, particularly during such high-risk times when dangerous rip currents are predicted.

Weekend Hazards and Precautions

The alert has emphasized the extreme dangers of these rip currents, underscoring their life-threatening potential. Beachgoers are strongly encouraged to stay away from the water, despite how deceptively calm it might seem on the surface. As the surf zone will be treacherous, entering the water could result in perilous outcomes.

Residents and visitors this weekend should heed the warnings and stay safe by opting for beach activities, staying out of the water until the high rip current risk is over.

The public’s cooperation and compliance with safety guidelines are vital in helping to avert any potential tragedies that could incur from these dangerous marine conditions.