The National Weather Service has issued a Rip Current Statement for much of Florida's Gulf Coast, warning of dangerous swimming conditions from Wednesday morning through Friday evening.
Why it matters: Rip currents can quickly pull even experienced swimmers away from shore into deeper water.
"VERY BRAVE": Lifeguards jumped into action to rescue a 10-year-old boy who was being pummeled by waves, thrashed through thick white water, and overpowered by rip currents. https://t.co/HrC7TRhmlo pic.twitter.com/FSUTMBgWsA
— WFLA NEWS (@WFLA) July 28, 2026
The latest:
- Dangerous rip currents are expected along beaches in:
- Pinellas County
- Coastal Hillsborough County
- Coastal Manatee County
- Coastal Sarasota County
- Coastal Charlotte County
- Coastal Lee County
- The advisory remains in effect through 8 p.m. Friday.
Stay safe:
- Swim only at beaches with lifeguards.
- Always check the beach flag warning system before entering the water.
- Never swim alone.
- Keep children within arm's reach near the surf.
If you're caught in a rip current:
- Stay calm and don't panic.
- Don't swim directly against the current.
- Float or tread water to conserve energy.
- Swim parallel to the shoreline until you escape the current.
- If you can't break free, face the shore, wave for help and call out to lifeguards or nearby beachgoers.
The big picture:
Rip currents are one of Florida's deadliest beach hazards. They can form on otherwise beautiful beach days and are often difficult to spot from shore.
Bottom line: Beach conditions may look inviting, but dangerous rip currents can develop without warning. Choosing a beach with lifeguards and knowing how to respond if caught in a rip current can save your life.
