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# High rip current risk continues along Gulf beaches through Monday
- URL: https://tampa-bay-disaster-preparedness-news.ghost.io/high-rip-current-risk-continues-along-gulf-beaches-through-monday/
- Published: 2026-07-20T04:21:52.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-20T04:21:52.000Z
- Description: Dangerous surf conditions are expected from Pinellas County to Lee County as tropical weather increases the risk of life-threatening rip currents.
- Author: Chris Thomas
- Tags: News, rip-currents, rip-current

The National Weather Service issued a **High Rip Current Risk** for Gulf Coast beaches from **Pinellas County south to Lee County** through **8 p.m. Monday**.

**Why it matters:** Rip currents can quickly pull even experienced swimmers away from shore into deeper water.

**The latest:**

- The statement covers Pinellas, coastal Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties.
- Dangerous rip currents are expected from **6 a.m. Sunday through 8 p.m. Monday**.
- Tropical weather over the Gulf is contributing to hazardous surf conditions.

**Beach safety:**

- Swim only at beaches with lifeguards.
- Follow posted beach warning flags and local safety instructions.
- Stay out of the water if conditions appear rough.
- If caught in a rip current, remain calm, float and swim parallel to the shoreline until free of the current before heading back to the beach.

**Bottom line:** Anyone planning a trip to Gulf beaches through Monday should expect dangerous swimming conditions and use extreme caution before entering the water.