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.
