Current Affairs: Rip Currents

Summer in Florida means beach time. No school and warmer waters are a perfect excuse to go to the beach. With great fun, however, comes great responsibility.

Safety is critical, especially when it comes to understanding rip currents. These powerful, near-shore currents account for 80% of beach rescues in the United States. And, rip currents can be deadly.

What is a rip current?

A rip current is a powerful channel of water flowing away from the beach and out to the sea. Rip currents extend from near the shoreline out through the surf zone and pass the line of breaking waves, but sometimes rip currents continue to push hundreds of yards offshore.

Where and when do rip currents occur?

Rip currents can occur anywhere, but they are more likely to form at low spots or breaks in sandbars, as well as structures such as jetties and piers. Rip currents can form under any weather.

How do rip currents form?

Rip current formation and effects. [CREDIT: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]
Rip current formation and effects. [CREDIT: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]

Here is the explanation, with an accompanying illustration, by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration on how rip currents form:

“Rip currents form as incoming waves (#1) push water toward the shoreline (#2), which creates an imbalance of water piling up in the surf zone. To stay in balance, the water seeks the path of least resistance back through the surf, which is typically a break in the sandbar (#3). This area is where the rip current is the strongest. Once the flowing water passes through the narrow gap, it begins to spread out (#4), considerably weakening the velocity and strength of the rip current circulation.”

Can you spot a rip current?

Rip currents are not easy to spot, especially in rough waters. But, there are some signs to watch for, including:

  • A channel of churning or foamy water
  • A narrow gap of darker and seemly calmer water (area without breaking waves) surrounded by areas of breaking waves and whitewater
  • A dark or discolored area of water due to sediment and sand being carried away from the beach
  • A seaweed or debris line carried through the surf

What to do if you get caught in a rip current?

How to escape from a rip current. [CREDIT: Sea Grant Michigan]
How to escape from a rip current. [CREDIT: Sea Grant Michigan]

First, do not panic and stay calm. Panicking can lead to hyperventilation and rapid fatigue; both can contribute to drowning. Therefore, stay calm and follow these steps:

  • Don’t fight the current! You will only make yourself tired.
  • Try to swim parallel to the shore so you can escape the rip current and swim back to the beach.
  • If you can’t escape, float or tread water. Rip currents will not pull you under; rip currents will only carry you out away from the shoreline.
  • If you need help, call and wave for assistance.

Other general swimming safety tips

Array of Florida beach warning flags and their meanings
Florida beach warning flags
  • Swim at a lifeguarded beach. You can check local county websites or park websites for information about lifeguarded beaches.
  • Check weather and ocean conditions, and avoid swimming during strong winds or rough seas.
  • Swim with a buddy.
  • Watch for warning flags.

Swimming is fun, and by recognizing the signs of a rip current and following the steps to escape, you can stay safe in the water. Enjoy your summer and your favorite Florida beach.

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Posted: June 2, 2025


Category: Coasts & Marine, Natural Resources, Recreation, Water, Work & Life
Tags: Pgm_FloridaSeaGrant, Pgm_Marine, Rip Current, Safety, Swimming


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