News Headlines

October Climate Summary for the Tri-State Area
NOAA Outlook Shows Favored Chances of a Warmer & Drier Than Normal Winter for the SE US
Autumn 2024 Newsletter: Hurricane Debby Impacts, Tallahassee's New Record-Warmest Summer, and More!
Highly Active Hurricane Season Likely to Continue - 2024 Mid-Season Outlook

🚩 Gulf Coast Rip Current Awareness 🚩

While the Gulf Coast is known for its beaches, rip currents are a hidden danger that all folks visiting the Gulf Coast should be aware of. We'll talk about rip current statistics, identifying rip currents, and how to keep yourself safe from them! We want everyone who visits our amazing beaches to have a good time and a safe time.

Contrary to popular belief, the Gulf isn't always "flat" (calm with no surf). There are a variety of conditions that can bring big waves to the area and an increased threat for rip currents. The right image is surf from Hurricane Laura while the left image is what we see most of the time along the Gulf Coast.

All About Rip Currents

Spot A Rip Current

Survive A Rip Current

Beach Forecasts

Beach Flags/Resources

Social Media Plan

All About Rip Currents

We all love the beach - the sun, the sand, and the surf. BUT! Just because you are having fun at the beach does NOT mean you can forget about safety.

Rip currents are the #1 weather-related killer at the beaches along the northern Gulf Coast. There have been a staggering 213 rip current fatalities since 2002 in the beaches covered by the National Weather Service Offices in Tallahassee, FL and Mobile, AL. That is more than the fatalities of flooding, tornadoes, lightning, and tropical storms/hurricanes COMBINED!! [Note: Rip current fatalities are only across our coastal counties with beaches (2 in Alabama and 7 in Florida), whereas the other fatalities are spread across the entire forecast area that spans 68 counties in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi.]

What is a Rip Current?

A powerful, narrow channel of water flowing away from the beach. Rip currents typically extend from near the shoreline out through the breaker zone where breaking waves form. Rip currents can and do occur on clear, sunny days.

Think of a rip current like this - it is a natural treadmill traveling away from the beach. Rip currents can travel as fast as 8 feet per second - that’s faster than an Olympic swimmer! A rip current is dangerous because it can sweep even the strongest swimmers out to sea. For that reason, rip currents are life-threatening to anyone entering the surf.

Rip currents also commonly form around breaks in sandbars and near inlets, jetties, and piers (where they are more intense).

Learn all about rip currents in this video from the South Walton Fire District and NWS Tallahassee

Learn all about rip currents in this video from the City of Orange Beach - Beach Safety Division and NWS Mobile!

What is NOT a Rip Current?

A rip current is NOT a “rip tide”. A rip current is also NOT an “undertow”. Rip currents do not pull you under the water - it will just pull you away from the beach.

Beach Forecast

NWS Meteorologists along the Gulf Coast routinely provide daily rip current forecasts for local beaches via the “Surf Zone Forecast” (SRF) product:

Florida Panhandle Beaches Surf Zone Forecast from NWS Tallahassee
Coastal Alabama and Northwest Florida Beaches Surf Zone Forecast from NWS Mobile

NWS Beach Forecast Map: www.weather.gov/beach

Media Collaboration:

WTVY Dothan Rip Current Awareness Story

Spot A Rip Current

Did you know that waves do not need to be huge for rip currents to form? Rip Currents are strongest at low tide but can form at any time.

Clues to Identify a Rip Current:

Water Texture - Rip currents are often found in areas where waves are *not* breaking. The flat water located between breaking waves is actually a rip current flowing away from the beach out to sea.
Water Color - The water is often darker in a rip current. White foam is present where waves are breaking and there are no rip currents.
Water Movement - Look for a line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving away from the beach.

Rip currents are often present in channel cuts through sandbars. Rip currents can also occur where there are hard structures (in the vicinity of inlets, jetties, or piers) or even rocks jutting out into the Gulf.

Rip currents are easier to identify from an elevated vantage point such as a lifeguard stand, dune line, or even at the beach access point.

Learn more on how to spot a rip current in the videos from NWS Tallahassee and Mobile below. Includes advice from local beach experts!

Survive A Rip Current

Staying safe at the beach means knowing the dangers BEFORE you head out! It's also important to know that great beach weather does not always mean great swimming weather. Rip currents can form on calm, sunny days. Distant hurricanes have been known to cause rip currents as their powerful winds can generate swell that travels hundreds of miles.

Are you planning a beach trip soon? We look forward to you visiting our wonderful beaches, but there are some days that you will want to say out of the water due to rip currents.

Do you know what to do if caught in a rip current? These tips could save your life...

Rip Current Safety Tips to KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

Always check the local beach forecast before your toes hit the sand.
Look for the beach warning signs and or beach flags (often located on or near the lifeguard stand).
If you are unsure about the water conditions, ask a lifeguard.
Always swim near lifeguards and know how to swim before you venture in.
**Not all beaches have lifeguards, so be extra careful on unguarded beaches.**
When you go in the water at an unguarded beach, always bring flotation.
When in doubt, DON’T GO OUT - Avoid swimming if there is any question as to whether there is a rip current.

Did you know that rip currents account for 80% of beach rescues? Rip currents can be deadly if you do not know what to do. This knowledge could save your life or the life of someone else.

Rip Current Survival Guide:

STAY CALM. WAVE. YELL. FLOAT.
DON’T PANIC - Staying calm may save your life.
Good swimmer? Swim parallel to the beach until you clear the pull of the rip current.
Not a skilled swimmer? Relax and flip on your back to float (floating conserves your energy)
Always wave and yell to get the attention of the lifeguards.
REMEMBER - Don’t fight the rip current. Instead, swim left or right.
Do NOT swim next to jetties.
Swimming in a pool is not the same as swimming at a beach with crashing waves, winds, and dangerous rip currents.
Swim with a buddy!
Swim near a lifeguard. The chance of drowning at a beach protected by USLA affiliated lifeguards is 1 in 18 million!

See someone in trouble in a rip current at the beach?

Do not go in after them. Instead - call for help!
If no lifeguard is available, throw them something that floats, but do NOT try to make the rescue yourself. Remember, even lifeguards only attempt a rip current rescue using a flotation device.

Rip Current Survival Stories

Rip Current Safety Videos:

Learn more by viewing all the rip current safety videos in our YouTube playlist. Additional information from our beach safety partners is below!

Beach Forecast Information

Know Before You Go! One of the best ways to be prepared for rip currents and other beach hazards is to know what you could be swimming into at the beach!
In addition to local expertise from our meteorologists, the National Weather Service runs a nearshore-wave model that helps forecast the potential rip current risk each day. The surf forecast is issued early each morning and updated later that morning after we receive updates from the local beach officials and lifeguards. Occasionally, lifeguards or beach officials will see that rip current conditions are evolving quicker or slower than our initial forecast, so we update the forecast to reflect the current conditions. More information on forecasts rip currents is below.

Below the map, you will see that we use three tiers of qualifiers or “risk levels” in our beach forecasts - low, moderate, and high. High Risk is the highest level and means that the wind, swell, and/or tidal conditions are extremely favorable for the development of numerous deadly rip currents in the surf zone. A high risk means the surf is dangerous for ALL LEVELS of swimmers
Click the map below to get your nearby beach forecast!

Risk Level

Description

Low

The risk of rip currents is low, however, life threatening rip currents may still occur especially near groins, jetties, reefs, and piers. Always swim near a lifeguard and remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems.

Moderate

Life threatening rip currents are possible. Always swim near a lifeguard and remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems.

High

Life threatening rip currents are likely. The surf zone is dangerous for all levels of swimmers. Stay out of the water. Remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems.

Additional Resources

UV Index Scale
2 or less	Low	Low danger from the sun's UV rays for the average person. Wear sunglasses on bright days. If you burn easily, cover up and use sunscreen.
3 - 5	Moderate	Moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Take precautions, such as covering up, if you will be outside. Stay in shade near midday when the sun is strongest.
6 - 7	High	High risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Protection against sunburn is needed. Reduce time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.
8 - 10	Very High	Very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Take extra precautions. Unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn quickly. Minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Otherwise, seek shade, cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.
11+	Extreme	Extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Take all precautions. Unprotected skin can burn in minutes. Beachgoers should know that white sand and other bright surfaces reflect UV and will increase UV exposure. Try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade, cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

Thunderstorm Potential (definition)

Waterspout Risk (definition)

None	No thunderstorms are expected	None	No risk of waterspout development
Low	Thunderstorms are only expected to be isolated in coverage	Low	Low risk of waterspout development
Moderate	Thunderstorms are forecast to be scattered in coverage	Moderate	Moderate risk of waterspout development
High	Thunderstorms are forecast to be numerous or widespread in coverage	High	High risk of waterspout development

Beach Flags and Additional Resources

Know what the beach flag colors mean BEFORE you head to the beach. When you get to the beach, always look for beach warning flags, which are often posted on or near a lifeguard stand.

The clickable table below provides beach flag resources for several northern Gulf Coast beaches in Alabama and Florida. Click the website or social media buttons next to the beach name to view the current beach flags and beach conditions for that particular beach.

Did you know that two communities in coastal Alabama, Ft Morgan and Dauphin Island, have rip current signs that flash when the NWS Mobile Office issues a HIGH RISK for rip currents? A view of the sign at Ft Morgan can be seen below.

Before your toes hit the sand, learn about the beach flag warning system and other resources to keep you safe in this video from the City of Orange Beach - Beach Safety Division and NWS Mobile:

Beach Safety Videos:

Rip Current Awareness & Safety - A local perspective from Destin Beach Safety & NWS Mobile
Rip Current Awareness & Safety - A local perspective from Orange Beach Safety & NWS Mobile
Rip Current Safety Videos - All local and national rip current safety videos

Additional Safety Resources:

NWS Beach Page
NWS Tallahassee: Beach Forecast
NWS Mobile: Beach Forecast and 4-Day Rip Current Outlook

Additional Safety Resources:

NOAA Ocean Today - Rip Current Survival Guide - A Supplemental Resource for Educators!
NWS - Rip Current Safety
NWS JetStream - Rip Current Information
NOAA Story Map - PLAY IT SAFE!
USLA - Rip Current Tips

For Media Inquiries:

Rip Current Awareness Campaign
Social Media Ideas and Content

Campaign Webpage: www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness

In support of the 2024 Gulf Coast Rip Current Awareness Week: February 26 - March 1

[To view the Spanish content version, click here]

We offer social media content suggestions throughout this webpage. Rip current graphics accompany some of this social media content - these graphics are hyperlinked in dark blue parentheses after the tweet and will open in a new window when clicked. Feel free to download any of the graphics on this webpage to share on social media alongside the written content.

The social media content is split into different sections. Want to skip ahead to a specific section? Click on these links to take you further down the webpage:

Monday - Rip Current Basics | Tuesday - Spot a Rip Current | Wednesday - Survive a Rip Current | Thursday - Beach Forecasts, Flags, Resources | Friday - Rip Current Reminders

Social Media Graphics | Social Media Emojis | Hashtags: #RipCurrent #BeachSmart

All About Rip Currents [MONDAY]

We all ❤️ the beach - the sun, the sand, and the surf. 🏖️ BUT! Just because you are having fun at the beach does NOT mean you can forget about safety.
🌴 Be #BeachSmart. www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZufVrhPgPE

🌊RIP CURRENTS: #1 weather-related killer at the northern Gulf Coast beaches.
👀213: That's the number of #RipCurrent fatalities from 2002-2023 at the beaches covered by @NWSTallahassee & @NWSMobile. That's more than flooding, tornado, lightning, & tropical fatalities COMBINED! {insert Rip Current Fatality Stats graphic}

🌊RIP CURRENT: Strong, narrow current of water flowing away from shore. #RipCurrents commonly form around breaks in sandbars & near jetties/piers. It's a natural treadmill traveling up to 8 feet per second - faster than an Olympic swimmer
☀️Be #BeachSmart www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness {insert Rip Current Basics graphic}

👀 Don't fight the #RipCurrent! It is a natural treadmill traveling as fast as 8 feet per second - faster than an Olympic swimmer.
🏊 For that reason, rip currents are life-threatening to anyone entering the surf!
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart. {insert NWS - Rip Current Green Dye GIF}

🚨🌊 You should avoid swimming 🏊 if there is any question as to whether there is a #RipCurrent. “When in doubt, DON'T GO OUT.”
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart.

🌊🌴 Heading to the beach?
🦩☀ Always check out your beach forecast for vacation BEFORE you dip your toes in the sand: www.weather.gov/beach.
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart. {insert NWS Beach Page graphic}

🌴☀️ Staying safe when visiting the beach means knowing the dangers BEFORE you head out!
🌊 Be #BeachSmart. https://noaa.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/index.html?appid=14df9f1056b2436ea9f81c02430a4a5a

🌴 Planning a beach trip soon?
☀️ Despite the sunny skies, there will be some days that you will want to stay out of the water due to #RipCurrents.
🌊 What you need to know BEFORE you head to the beach: www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness.
🦩 Be #BeachSmart when visiting the Gulf Coast! {insert NWS - Spring Break graphic}

Spot a Rip Current [TUESDAY]

🌊 Waves do NOT need to be huge for #ripcurrents to form. Stay safe when visiting the beach on vacation!🌴
👉 How to escape a rip current? STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, and FLOAT!
✨ Be #BeachSmart: www.weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent-surviving {insert Spot The Rip Current (3) graphic}

🤓🌊Did You Know - Rip currents are often present in channel cuts through sandbars. #RipCurrents can also occur where there are hard structures (in the vicinity of inlets, jetties, or piers) or even rocks jutting out into the Gulf of Mexico!
☀️ Be #BeachSmart! {insert Spot The Rip Current (2) graphic}

🌊 Rip Currents are typically strongest at low tide, but can form at ANY TIME.
🤷‍♀️ Learn how to spot a #RipCurrent BEFORE you dip your toes in the Gulf waters: www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzK1GM0Wuf4.
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart!

👀 Tips to Spot a #RipCurrent: Look at the water texture, color, and movement.
🌊 Rip currents are often found in areas where waves are *not* breaking. The flat water located between breaking waves is the rip current flowing away from the beach out to sea.
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart. {insert Spot The Rip Current (1) graphic}

👀 Tips to Spot a #RipCurrent: Look at the water texture, color, and movement.
🌊 Water is darker in a rip current. White foam appears with breaking waves and typically means no rip currents.
🔭 Look for a line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving away from the beach.
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart. {insert Spot The Rip Current (1) graphic}

🌊 Learn how to spot a #RipCurrent with the @NWS online weather school called JetStream.
🌴🥥☀️Be #BeachSmart! www.noaa.gov/jetstream/ocean/rip-currents

🌊Rip currents can be difficult to see, are sometimes shallow, & can move faster than an Olympic swimmer.
🔭#RipCurrents are easier to identify from an elevated vantage point such as a lifeguard stand, dune line, or even at the beach access point.
🏝Be #BeachSmart. {insert Spot The Rip Current (4) graphic}

⚠️🌊TEACHERS!! @NOAAOceanToday has a supplemental resource dedicated to #RipCurrent Safety! Knowing how to spot rip currents & how to respond if caught in one can help keep students safe when visiting the beaches! Be #BeachSmart. 🌴🏖️ https://oceantoday.noaa.gov/every-full-moon/full-moon-ripcurrent.html

⚠️ IMPORTANT - Know what #ripcurrents are and how to escape them BEFORE you enter the Gulf waters! Be #BeachSmart 🌊🏊‍🏄 www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness

🌊The flat water located between breaking waves is the #RipCurrent flowing away from the beach out to the ocean.
💻 Learn more about rip currents: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJ4hcaJ91TY
🏝 Be #BeachSmart

👀MYTH: You don't have to worry about #RipCurrents if you don’t see any when you enter the water.
🌊FACT: Rip currents are easier to identify from an elevated point (lifeguard stand, dune line, beach access point).
🏖If unsure about conditions, ask a lifeguard.
🌟Be #BeachSmart

🏖️ BEACH REMINDER: Never turn your back on the Gulf waters.
🙌 Stay safe when visiting the beach!
🌴 Be #BeachSmart. www.weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent-surviving

🌴Just arrived at the beach?
👀Take a few minutes to scan your surroundings and observe the water conditions from an elevated point - this will help you identify potential #RipCurrents and areas in the water to avoid
🏖Unsure about conditions? Ask a lifeguard
🌟Be #BeachSmart

🌊 Learn how to spot a #RipCurrent BEFORE you dip your toes in the Gulf waters in this video from @swfdinfo and @NWSTallahassee: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_s-t6d_8QXU.
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart!

🏖Just arrived at the beach?
⏱Pause for a minute - Check the water conditions & HAVE A PLAN
🌊#RipCurrents may not be obvious at first - Find an elevated spot (beach access/dune line) to look for telltale signs (darker water, flat water between breaking waves)
🌟Be #BeachSmart

Survive a Rip Current [WEDNESDAY]

🌴☀️ DO NOT ASSUME - Great beach weather does not always mean it's safe to swim or play in the water.
🌊 #RipCurrents often form on calm, sunny days.
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart. www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0AuAjcjwC8 {insert Sunny Days graphic}

⛱️ Staying safe at the beach means knowing the dangers BEFORE you head out!
🌴 Great beach weather does not always mean it's safe to swim or play in the Gulf waters.
☀️ #RipCurrents can form on calm, sunny days.
🕶 Be #BeachSmart. www.youtube.com/watch?v=vslqCz4NT44

🌴☀️ BEACHGOERS: 🏊 Swimming in a pool is NOT the same as swimming at a beach with crashing waves, winds and dangerous #RipCurrents.
🌊 Be #BeachSmart. www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness {insert NWS - Beach Safety Tips graphic}

🌊#RipCurrent Safety Tips to Know BEFORE You Go!
🏖️Check the beach forecast BEFORE you enter the Gulf.
🚩Look for beach warning signs or flags.
🤔If unsure about conditions, ask a lifeguard.
🏊Always swim near lifeguards & know how to swim BEFORE you venture in!
🕶Be #BeachSmart {insert Rip Current Safety Tips graphic}

🌊 Beach Survival Tips:
⚠️Caught in a #ripcurrent? DON'T PANIC.
🏊Good swimmer? Swim parallel to shore til you clear the pull of the rip current.
🤷Not a skilled swimmer? Flip on your back & float.
📣WAVE & YELL to get the lifeguard's attention!
⛱️Be #BeachSmart! {insert Rip Current Safety Tips graphic}

🤔Caught in a #RipCurrent?
⚠️DO NOT PANIC!
🌊Relax & float to conserve energy.
🏊Good swimmer? Swim parallel to shore til you clear the pull of the rip current.
🤷Not a skilled swimmer? Flip on your back & float.
📣WAVE & YELL to get the lifeguard's attention.
🏖️Be #BeachSmart. {insert How To Survive A Rip Current graphic}

🌴☀️🥥 Planning A Quick Trip To The Beach?
🌊 Watch these #RipCurrent Safety Videos first: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZcEBOTgZxbyajwWoar2ODE2F7cSN50gW
These tips could SAVE YOUR LIFE👍👍

🌊 How to survive a #RipCurrent - STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, and FLOAT!
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart. www.youtube.com/watch?v=5jrRvNCWaBw

🏖️See someone caught in a #RipCurrent?
⛓Do not attempt a rescue by forming a human chain!
⚠️Beachgoers who attempt a rip current rescue by themselves or as a human chain may end up needing to be rescued.
📞Instead - Call 911 and throw them a flotation device.
🌊Be #BeachSmart! {insert Human Chains graphic}

🏖 Just arrived at the beach?
🗺 Make sure you know the NAME of the beach
⛲️ Scan your surroundings for any landmarks around you
🌟 This will help first responders if you need to call 911 for a swimmer in distress (caught in a #RipCurrent)
🕶 Be #BeachSmart

🌊 Basic #RipCurrent Survival Tips: Stay calm, wave, yell and float!
🏊 Good swimmer? Swim parallel to shore til you clear the pull of the rip current.
📣 Always WAVE and YELL to get the lifeguard's attention.
😎 Be #BeachSmart. www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKxtP1HTJE4

🏖️ Upcoming Beach Vacation?
🌊 Do you know how to survive a #RipCurrent?
🏊‍♂️ STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, and FLOAT!
🌴 Be #BeachSmart. www.youtube.com/watch?v=pa4k5TcIo_U

🌊Rip currents can be deadly - even for the most advanced swimmers. Know what #RipCurrents are & how to escape BEFORE you enter the Gulf. This could save your life or the life of someone else.
👉Survival Tips: STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, FLOAT.
🌴Be #BeachSmart www.weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent-surviving

🏖️ Heading to the beach with children? Make sure to watch this #RipCurrent safety video with them BEFORE you jump in the water: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJ76XfBVKq0.
🦩 Be #BeachSmart!

🏖️ Do you know how to survive a #RipCurrent? STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, and FLOAT!
🌊 #BeachSmart Survival Guide: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pa4k5TcIo_U

🌊 Do YOU know how to escape a rip current? STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, and FLOAT. Staying calm may save your life!
👉 Short #RipCurrent safety video with American Sign Language www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgmqTAe6mUU
⛱️ Be #BeachSmart

🏊 #RipCurrent Tip - If caught in a rip current, swim sideways. Not a skilled swimmer? Flip onto your back and float.
🌊 If you can, wave and yell to get the attention of lifeguards and people on shore to let them know you need help!
🦩Be #BeachSmart.

🌊#RipCurrents account for 80% of beach rescues & are deadly if you don't know what to do
🏊‍♂️Good swimmer: Swim parallel to shore til you clear the pull of the current
🤷Not a skilled swimmer: Flip on your back & float
📣WAVE & YELL to get a lifeguard's attention
🌟Be #BeachSmart

🌴☀️ Beach Bound for Vacation? Learn how to escape a #RipCurrent before you enter the Gulf!
🦩 Be #BeachSmart and check the beach forecast: www.weather.gov/beach

🏊‍♂️ Swim Near a Lifeguard!
🌊 The chance of a #RipCurrent drowning at a beach protected by USLA-affiliated lifeguards is 1 in 18 million!
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart. {insert NWS - WRN Lifeguard graphic}

🌊 Caught in a #RipCurrent?
🏊‍♂️ Relax and float to conserve energy.
🙌 Staying calm may save your life!
🏝 Be #BeachSmart. #BreakTheGrip www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0AuAjcjwC8

🌊 If you get caught in a #RipCurrent, STAY CALM.
🏖 The rip current will not pull you under - it will only pull you away from shore.
🏊‍♂️ If you try to fight the rip current and swim against it, you wear yourself out. Instead - FLOAT!
🦩 Be #BeachSmart. {insert NWS - Survival Story3 graphic}

🌊See someone in trouble in a #RipCurrent at the beach? Do not go in after them. Instead - call for help!
🏖️Lifeguard not available? Throw them something that floats, but do NOT attempt a rescue. Even lifeguards only attempt a rescue using a flotation device!
🕶️Be #BeachSmart. {insert Be A Hero graphic}

🌊"I grew up on the Gulf. I know about rip currents. We taught our children about them and still, we nearly had a tragedy." - Beth in Tallahassee, FL
🏖️ Do you know how to survive a #RipCurrent? STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, and FLOAT!
➡️ Be #BeachSmart. www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness {insert NWS - Survival Story4 graphic}

Beach Forecasts, Flags, and Resources [THURSDAY]

🌴☀️ VACATIONERS - We have a beach forecast and #RipCurrent info page! Check it out before you head to the beach: www.weather.gov/beach.
🌊 Be #BeachSmart! {insert NWS Beach Page graphic}

👋 Beach Bound?
🌊 Check out our beach forecast with #ripcurrent information before dipping your toes in the sand! www.weather.gov/beach
🏝🥥 Be #BeachSmart! {insert NWS - Know Before You Go graphic}

🌊#RipCurrent Forecasts - There are 3 tiers of risk levels in beach forecasts: Low, Moderate, HIGH.
🛑HIGH risk means wind, swell &/or tidal conditions are EXTREMELY favorable for the development of numerous rip currents in the surf zone.
🌴Be #BeachSmart www.weather.gov/beach {insert Rip Current Forecasting graphic}

🚨 HIGH #RipCurrent Risk means the surf is dangerous for *ALL LEVELS* of swimmers.
🏖 Always follow the advice of local beach patrol & beach flags.
🕶 Be #BeachSmart! {insert NWS - Survival Story graphic}

👋 Heading to the northern Gulf Coast for vacation?
🌊 Check out our clickable beach forecast with #ripcurrent information before jumping into the Gulf! www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness
🏝🥥 Be #BeachSmart! {insert Rip Current Local Page graphic}

🏖️Be #BeachSmart - Know what the beach flag 🚩 colors mean BEFORE you head to the beach for vacation!
🤔Do you know how to survive a #RipCurrent?
🌊 STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL & FLOAT! www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOGgfNMrcP4

🏝☀️🥥 Do your vacation plans involve the beach?
🚩 Always look for beach warning flags, often posted on or near a lifeguard stand.
🌊 Be #BeachSmart and avoid #RipCurrents! {insert NWS - Rip Current Safe Place graphic}

🚨🌊 Did You Know - Two communities in coastal Alabama (Ft Morgan and Dauphin Island) have rip current signs that flash when @NWSMobile issues a HIGH RISK for #RipCurrents.
🕶 Be #BeachSmart and avoid rip currents.

👋 Beach Bound for the week?
🙌 You'll want to check out the last tab on our webpage! We have a great resource for you - a clickable table that provides beach flag resources for several northern Gulf Coast beaches in Alabama and Florida.
➡️ Be #BeachSmart www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness

🌴 BEACH REMINDER: Perfect beach weather does NOT mean perfect swimming weather in the Gulf.
🌀Tropical systems that are 100s of miles away in the Gulf can cause rough surf and deadly #RipCurrents at our beaches.
🏖️ Be #BeachSmart. {insert NWS - Rip Current Tropical graphic}

Rip Current Reminders [FRIDAY]

🌊Rip Current: Strong, narrow current of water flowing away from shore. #RipCurrents commonly form around breaks in sandbars & near jetties/piers. It's a natural treadmill traveling up to 8 feet per second - faster than an Olympic swimmer.
☀️Be #BeachSmart www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness {insert Rip Current Reminders graphic}

🌊 Waves do NOT need to be huge for #ripcurrents to form. Stay safe when visiting the beach!🌴
👉 How to escape a rip current? STAY CALM, WAVE, YELL, and FLOAT!
💻 Be #BeachSmart: www.weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent-surviving {insert Spot The Rip Current (3) graphic}

🌊🌴 Check out your beach forecast for vacation before you dip your toes in the sand: www.weather.gov/beach.
🦩☀️ Be #BeachSmart! {insert NWS Beach Page graphic}

👉 Learn more about #RipCurrents on this @uslifesaving site: www.usla.org/page/RIPCURRENTS.
🌊 Break The Grip Of The Rip!
🕶 Be #BeachSmart {insert NWS - Rip Current Safety graphic}

🌊 Heading to the Gulf Coast for vacation this year?
🦩 Here are some #RipCurrent Safety Tips to "Know BEFORE You Go" from Destin Beach Safety and @NWSMobile: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WWHCYbsYqU.
🕶 Be #BeachSmart

🌊☀️ Stay safe while visiting our local beaches this year!
🌴 The @cityorangebeach Beach Safety Division and @NWSMobile share lots of #RipCurrent safety tips in this video to keep you and your family safe: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIp4-OuaSYk
🕶 Be #BeachSmart

Graphics For Social Media (click on the graphics below to save them)

Rip Current Basics -


ALT text: From 2002-2023, there were a staggering 213 rip current fatalities along the northern Gulf Coast, which encompasses the Alabama and Florida panhandle beaches. By comparison, the fatality stats for other weather-related hazards were 78 from tornadoes, 46 from lightning, 31 from tropical, and 19 from flooding.	ALT text: Rip current information is provided alongside an illustration of a rip current pulling someone away from the beach and a photo of a flashing beach warning sign on Ft Morgan. A rip current is a powerful channel of water that moves away from the shore. Rip currents are more intense near inlets, jetties, and piers. A rip current is dangerous because it can sweep even the strongest swimmers out to sea. Rip currents can be LIFE-THREATENING to anyone entering the surf. Always swim near a lifeguard and follow the advice of beach patrol and beach flag warning systems. Caught in a rip current? Don't fight the current. Swim parallel to the beach. If you cannot escape, YELL for help. Try to relax and float or tread water.

ALT text: Rip current identification and survival tips are provided alongside photos of rip currents and beach flags. A rip current is a powerful channel of water that moves away from the beach. Rip currents are often found in areas where the waves are not breaking. Look for a line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving away from the shoreline. If caught in a rip current, try to not panic. Wave and yell for help. Never attempt to swim against the rip current, instead, swim parallel to the beach and out from the rip current. If you cannot escape the rip current, float. If you are beachbound, visit the National Weather Service Beach Forecast website for the most recent beach forecast. weather.gov/beach	ALT text: What forecasters look at to predict the rip current risk is shared alongside a photo of strong rip currents along Pensacola Beach. Forecasters use science to predict rip currents each day along the Gulf Coast. Wind Direction, Speed, and Persistence - Strong onshore wind favors the generation of wave sets that move toward the beach, which results in strong and numerous rip currents. Swell Height, Period, and Direction of Propagation - Swell sets with higher wave heights and a longer period resulting in a greater potential for strong rip currents. Tide Cycle - A large range between high tide and low tide favors a greater potential for rip current development (especially during outgoing tide). There are 3 risk levels in the rip current forecast: low, moderate, and high.

ALT text: Details on how meteorologists work together with beach partners and lifeguards are shared alongside two photos of forecasters and lifeguards at local beaches. Images of collaborated safety messaging and the National Weather Service (NWS) Mobile/Pensacola Rip Current Report Form. NWS meteorologists work closely with local lifeguards to ensure YOU receive the most accurate beach safety information! Beach Flag and Rip Current Reports - Lifeguards send daily reports with beach flag colors, rip current and surf observations, and relevant beach information. These reports help ensure the NWS is messaging accurate surf conditions and rip current risk each day. Collaborative Meetings and Outreach Efforts - NWS meteorologists host meetings with lifeguards and beach safety partners to discuss how we can all work together to communicate each beach season. Lifeguards also help with messaging efforts through social media campaigns, collaborative video recordings, and national outreach initiatives!

Spot A Rip Current -


ALT text: Tips for how to spot a rip current are provided alongside two example photos that use the clues to locate the rip current. A rip current is a fast-flowing channel of water moving away from the shore and out to sea. Clues to identifying a rip current are provided on the graphic. Clue #1 is water texture - rip currents are often found in areas where waves are NOT breaking. Clue #2 is the color of the water - the water is often darker in a rip current. Clue #3 is water movement - look for a line of foam, seaweed, or debris moving away from the shore.	ALT text: Tips for how to spot a rip current are provided alongside two example photos of rip currents at a beach with one showing a prominent channel cut through a sandbar and the other showing a jetty. Rip currents are often present in channel cuts through sandbars (example on the left side of the graphic). Rip currents are also present in the vicinity of inlets, jetties, and piers (example on the right side of the graphic).

ALT text: Tips for how to spot a rip current are provided alongside a still photo taken from an animation of green dye dropped into the water at a beach, which shows the green dye being transported away from the beach in the rip current. The green dye shows the movement of water AWAY from shore in a rip current. Think of a rip current like a treadmill in the water. Rip currents can QUICKLY pull you out into the Gulf of Mexico. Rip currents are FAST - they can travel as fast as 8 feet per second, which is faster than an Olympic swimmer.	ALT text: Tips for how to spot a rip current are provided alongside two aerial photos of strong rip currents along Pensacola Beach in 2021. Rip currents are easier to identify from an elevated vantage point such as a lifeguard stand, dune line, or even at the beach access point. Rip currents are the darker-colored channels of water with waves crashing on both sides.

Survive A Rip Current -


ALT text: Rip current safety tips are provided alongside the beach warning flags, an illustration of a rip current pulling someone away from the beach, and photos of local beaches and the beach warning flags. It is important to always swim near lifeguards if at all possible. If you cannot swim, stay away from the surf. Swimming at the beach is not the same as swimming in a pool. Double red flags mean the water is closed and you could be arrested or fined for entering the water under these conditions. A single red flag means a high hazard with high surf and/or strong currents. A yellow flag means a medium hazard with moderate surf and/or currents. A green flag means a low hazard with calm conditions, but it’s still wise to exercise caution. A purple flag will sometimes fly with the other flags and means dangerous marine life is lurking in the water. The absence of flags does not assure safe waters.	ALT text: Tips for how to survive a rip current are provided alongside a photo of a rip current and illustrations denoting what to do in the rip current. How to survive a rip current: Do not panic! Rip currents will not pull you under the water. Do not swim against the current (aka toward the beach). Instead, swim out of the current (aka parallel to the beach). If you cannot escape the rip current, FLOAT. Yell and wave for help.

ALT text: Three bright, sunny beach photos with rip currents are used to illustrate the point that rip currents often occur in the absence of storms on great beach days; on calm, sunny days; on days with warm water temperatures; and on days with low surf.	ALT text: Tips on the right way to help if you see someone caught in a rip current at the beach are provided alongside several photos of rip current rescues and a human chain. It is easy to underestimate the power of water and quickly become exhausted in a rip current. In some cases, beachgoers attempted a rip current rescue by linking arms to form what’s called a human chain (this is not recommended). Beachgoers that attempt a rip current rescue as a human chain or by themselves may end up needing to be rescued. Always let a lifeguard make the rip current rescue. If you are visiting the beach and see someone in distress, here are the best actions to take: Alert a lifeguard or CALL 9-1-1 if a lifeguard is not available. Yell to the distressed swimmer to FLOAT or TREAD WATER. Throw a flotation device to the distressed swimmer (good options are a boogie board, cooler, or pool noodles/rafts). Yell to the distressed swimmer to REMAIN CALM.

ALT text: Tips on how to be a hero at the beach are provided alongside a visual of a woman with a superhero cape. See someone in trouble? It is important to know your options to keep yourself and others around you safe when visiting the beach. See someone caught in a rip current? STAY CALM and immediately get the attention of a nearby lifeguard. Lifeguard not available? CALL 911 for help. IMPORTANT: Don't be a victim. Always let a lifeguard make the rip current rescue, so YOU do not end up needing to be rescued. The RIGHT WAY To Help! Scan your surroundings and throw them something that floats. Not sure what floats? Look for bigger items near you like a boogie board, an empty cooler, or even pool noodles/rafts. Protect yourself so you can protect others - do not attempt a rip current rescue yourself or as a human chain. Even lifeguards only attempt rip current rescues using a flotation device.

ALT text: A rip current survival story is shared alongside a visual of the beautiful water on Okaloosa Island with a “DO NOT ENTER - RIP CURRENT” sign posted in front of the water at the beach. “My 8-year-old son was in shallow water, not far from shore...and I looked up and my son was gone. I jumped into the water, screaming my son's name as I went in. Those few seconds I couldn't see him were the longest moments of my life. After what felt like forever, I saw him WAY farther than I expected. I made my way to him and we swam parallel to shore to exit the current. Meanwhile, two men from a family playing near us on the beach saw what was happening and jumped in to help. My son and I made it to the shore and reunited with my husband and daughter. By the time the men made it back, they were exhausted...so exhausted I thought we were going to have to call an ambulance. To this day, I'm haunted by how close we [all] came to tragedy and the idea that someone could have drowned while trying to help us. I grew up on the Gulf. I know about rip currents. We taught our children about them and still, we nearly had a tragedy.” -Beth, Tallahassee, FL	ALT text: Beach resources for the beaches along coastal Alabama and across northwest Florida are included in this infographic. For a clickable version of this graphic, go to www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness and select the Beach Flags/Resources tab.

ALT text: A map of the United States is displayed with colorful umbrellas lined along the Gulf Coast, East Coast, Southern California, and the Great Lakes region. Each umbrella corresponds with the NWS Office that issues beach and rip current forecasts for that area. Clicking on one of the umbrellas on the NWS Beach website will take you to the local beach forecast. weather.gov/beach	ALT text: A map of the northern Gulf Coast is displayed with colorful umbrellas lined along the coastline. Each umbrella corresponds with the beaches covered by the National Weather Service Offices in Mobile, AL and Tallahassee, FL. Clicking on an umbrella on the local beach website will take you to the local forecast. weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness

Other Rip Current Topics -


ALT text: A colorful, beachy illustration states "Be Beach Safe"!	ALT text: Tips to escape a rip current are provided alongside a visual of strong rip currents along Pensacola Beach, FL with a brightly-colored title stating SPRING BREAK: Stay Safe While Visiting The Beach On Vacation. Safety Tips: DO NOT PANIC if you get caught in a rip current. Good swimmer? Swim parallel to the beach until you clear the pull of the rip current. Not a skilled swimmer? Flip on your back and float. WAVE and YELL to get the lifeguard's attention!

ALT text: Tips to escape a rip current are provided alongside a visual of swaying palm trees in front of a purple sunset with a brightly-colored title stating SPRING BREAK: Stay Safe While Visiting The Beach On Vacation. How To Escape A Rip Current: Stay Calm. Wave. Yell. Float. Staying calm may save your life!	ALT text: Tips to escape a rip current are provided alongside a visual of a sunny day at the beach with a brightly-colored title stating SPRING BREAK: Stay Safe While Visiting The Beach On Vacation. Just Arrived At The Beach? Pause for a minute - Check the water conditions and have a plan. Rip currents may not be obvious to you at first! Find an elevated spot, such as a beach access point or dune line, to look for the telltale signs of a rip current (a.k.a. darker water and the flat water between the breaking waves). Remember: When In Doubt, Don't Go Out!

ALT text: Beach safety tips are provided alongside a visual of the sun and waves in the background with a brightly-colored title stating SPRING BREAK: Stay Safe While Visiting The Beach On Vacation. Just Arrived At The Beach? Make sure you know the NAME of the beach. Scan your surroundings for any landmarks around you, including nearby condos and/or homes or even lifeguard stands (often numbered). This information will help first responders if you need to call 9-1-1 for a swimmer in distress or caught in a rip current.	ALT text: Beach safety tips are provided alongside a faded visual of palm trees swaying in the background with a brightly-colored title stating BEACH SAFETY: Stay Safe While Visiting The Beach On Vacation. Remember: A HIGH Risk of Rip Currents means that the surf is dangerous for ALL levels of swimmers. For your safety, stay out of the water in these conditions.

ALT text: Beach safety tips are provided alongside a visual of blue waves with a brightly-colored title stating SPRING BREAK: Stay Safe While Visiting The Beach On Vacation. Safety Tips: Check the beach BEFORE you enter the water. Look for beach warning signs or flags, often posted at lifeguard stands. If unsure about the water conditions, ask a lifeguard. Always swim near lifeguards and know how to swim BEFORE you venture in!

ALT text: Tips to escape a rip current are provided alongside a black-and-white visual of waves at a beach with an orange and pink title stating SPRING BREAK. Safety Tips: Stay calm and don’t swim against the current. Swim in a direction following the shoreline, then at an angle toward the beach. If you need help, call or wave for assistance.	ALT text: Beach safety tips are provided alongside a black-and-white visual of sunglasses laying on the sand at a beach with an orange and pink title stating SPRING BREAK. Safety Tips: Only swim at beaches with lifeguards. Know how to swim. Never swim alone. Most importantly, if in doubt, don’t go out.

ALT text: Beach safety tips are provided alongside a black-and-white visual of palm trees at a beach and an old VW bus with surfboards stacked on top with an orange and pink title stating SPRING BREAK. Safety Tips: Only swim at beaches with lifeguards. Know how to swim. Never swim alone. Most importantly, if in doubt, don’t go out.	ALT text: A beach safety checklist is provided alongside a visual of a white umbrella and striped beach chairs at a beach with the water in the background. The checklist includes sunscreen, a first aid kit, a cell phone, water, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a floating device.

ALT text: A map of a fictitious coastal area is shown in the background with a tropical system looming in the distance and waves heading toward the beaches. The text on the graphic reads: Distant hurricanes can be deadly. Hurricanes that are far away can still create deadly rip currents and waves. Never assume that the ocean is safe, even if the weather is nice. For maximum safety, swim near a lifeguard. Check the forecast before you go at weather.gov/beach.	ALT text: Are you weather-ready for the beach? The background image shows calm waters at a secluded beach with a shaded spot and two chairs in front of the water. Rip Currents and Dangerous Waves - Swim at beaches with lifeguards and never swim along. If caught in a rip current, don't panic, call for help, and swim along the shore. Supervise young or inexperienced swimmers. Excessive Heat - Remain hydrated. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and use sunscreen. Relax in the shade and cool off in the water. Lightning - If you hear thunder or see lightning, go immediately to an enclosed building or hard-topped vehicle.

ALT text: Tips to escape a rip current are provided alongside a visual of turquoise waves at a sandy beach. Safety Tips: Stay calm and don't swim against the current. Swim in a direction following the shoreline, then at an angle toward the beach. If you need help, call or wave for assistance.	ALT text: Beach safety tips are provided alongside a visual of the sun shining through the bottom of a red lifeguard stand at a sandy beach. Beach Safety Tips: Only swim at beaches with lifeguards. Know how to swim. Never swim alone. And most importantly, if in doubt, don't go out!

ALT text: Weather-Ready Tips are provided alongside a visual of a lifeguard stand at a beach superimposed over a pink and purple map of the Gulf Coast and East Coast. Weather-Ready Tips: Only swim on beaches with lifeguards. Swimming at a surf beach with crashing waves, winds, and dangerous currents is NOT the same as swimming in a pool. Nice weather at the beach does not always mean it's safe to swim. Rip currents can also form on warm, sunny days.	ALT text: Your SAFE PLACE from RIP CURRENTS is provided alongside a visual of a lifeguard holding a flotation device under an umbrella with waves crashing in the background image. Rip currents kill over 100 beach-goers in the U.S. each year. When visiting the ocean, you are safest at beaches with lifeguards. If rip currents are forecast for the beach you're visiting, stay out of the water!

ALT text: The question “What does being WEATHER-READY look like?” is posed on the graphic alongside an image of a lifeguard standing on a lifeguard stand with the ocean nearby and mountains in the distance. Before heading to the BEACH - Families who recognize that swimming at a surf beach with crashing waves is not the same as swimming in a pool. These families only swim at beaches with lifeguards.	ALT text: Beach hazard tips related to helping others are provided alongside a visual of turquoise waves breaking at the beach. Tips to Help Others: Educate people who aren’t familiar with beach hazards. If someone is calling for help, take 10 seconds to assess the situation, then alert a lifeguard. While help is coming, see if there’s a flotation device to throw their way.

ALT text: Tips for how to survive a rip current are provided alongside a blue-tinted visual of waves breaking at a beach with rip currents. Rip Current Survival Tips: Don't fight the current. Relax, stay calm, and float to conserve energy. Do NOT try to swim directly to shore. Swim along the shoreline until you escape the current's pull. If you feel you can't reach shore, face the shore and call or wave for help.	ALT text: This animation shows green dye dropped into the water at a beach. The green dye is quickly transported away from the beach in the rip current. The green dye shows the movement of water AWAY from shore in a rip current. Think of a rip current like a treadmill in the water. Rip currents can QUICKLY pull you out into the Gulf of Mexico.

ALT text: Caught in a rip current? Here's how to survive: Relax, stay calm, and float to conserve energy. Do not swim against the current. Swim out of the current by following the shoreline or breaking waves, then at an angle toward the beach. If you can't reach shore, call or wave for help.	ALT text: A picture of a lifeguard running toward the water with a flotation device on a sunny day is shown in the background. Only swim at beaches with lifeguards - your life could depend on it.

ALT text: Don’t put yourself at risk! An image of a beach with gentle waves crashing is provided in the background with tips for how to help someone caught in a rip current. First, carefully assess the situation. Is the person unable to return to shore? Next, get help from a lifeguard. If there is no lifeguard, call 9-1-1. Advise the person to swim following the shoreline or coastline to escape the current. If possible, throw the person something that floats. Never enter the water without a flotation device. Many people have died trying to rescue someone caught in a rip current.

ALT text: Beach safety tips are provided alongside an illustration of beach chairs and an umbrella at a beach. It’s important to know before you go and get breach-specific forecasts at weather.gov/beach. Rip Current and Dangerous Waves Tips: Swim at a beach with lifeguards, Never swim alone, If caught in a rip current relax and call for help and swim along the shoreline. Heat Tips: Remain hydrated, Use sunscreen, Find shade (use a beach umbrella), and Cool off in the water. Lightning Tips: Remain weather-ready and immediately go to an enclosed building or hard-topped vehicle if you hear thunder or see lightning.	ALT text: 9 dangers at the beach are provided alongside illustrations of each hazard: heat and sunburn, lightning, rip currents, high surf, water quality, jellyfish, sharks, harmful algal blooms, and tsunamis. Be weather-aware when visiting the beach.

ALT text: Rip current information is provided alongside a visual of waves breaking at a beach. Rip currents are narrow currents of water flowing away from the shore at surf beaches. Rip currents commonly form around breaks in the sandbar and near structures such as jetties and piers. Rip currents move at speeds of 1-2 feet per second, but have been measured as fast as 8 feet per second.	ALT text: Tips to escape a rip current are provided alongside an illustration of a rip current pulling someone away from the beach with the sub-headline stating to know your options. Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore. They can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore. If at all possible, swim near a lifeguard. Tips if Caught in a Rip Current: Try to relax as rip currents don’t pull you under the water. Don’t swim against the current. Swim out of the current, then toward the beach. If you can’t escape, float or tread water. If you need help, yell or wave for assistance.

ALT text: A person is waving for help in the water in this black and white image with text that states WAVE and YELL, which refers to the actions to take to get the lifeguard’s attention if caught in a rip current.	ALT text: People are enjoying time at the beach and in the water with breaking waves with text that states WAVE SAFE - LET’S GET STARTED!

ALT text: People are jumping into the water with text stating "weather.gov. Know when it's safe to enter the water".	ALT text: A person is waving for help as they are caught in a rip current while a lifeguard runs to the water to help with a flotation device in his hand. The text reads Rip Current Survival Guide.


ALT text: A rip current survival story is shared alongside an image of a breaking wave. “Now I'm an 18-year-old guy, about 6 foot and I'm a decent swimmer, but before I knew it the water was up to my head and I was starting to tread water. At first, I thought I could just swim straight out of it. Then I realized the ocean was gonna win. I then tried to stay calm and I knew to not swim against it, but to swim parallel to the shoreline.” Jake, Nags Head, NC	ALT text: A rip current survival story is shared alongside an image of a low tide at a beach with mountains in the distance. “I watched the Weather Channel and heard the NOAA warnings and knew what to do when caught in a rip current. My training kicked in and I remembered to swim along the shore for a while and then make my way back to shore. I was so exhausted when I made it to shore that I dropped. Nobody on the beach noticed what happened. I kissed the ground.” Greg, North Carolina.	ALT text: A rip current survival story is shared alongside an image of a breaking wave. “As I looked into the shore, I thought this was how my life was to end. While thinking this, I suddenly became aware of a male voice telling me to "Swim parallel to the shore." It was as clear as if he was right there. I began to relax and started dog paddling and slowly swimming parallel to the shoreline. I was too tired to do anything more but as I moved with the current in that direction, I eventually reached the shore.” Gail, Ocean Shores, WA.

Emojis (an assortment of emojis that could be useful to include in social media content)

Beachy: 🏝 🏖️ ⛱ 🌴 ☀️ 🥥 🕶 🐬 🦈 🐊 🦩

Important: 🚩 🚨 ⚠️ 📣

Water: 🌊 🏊 🏊‍♀️ 🏊‍♂️ 🏄‍♀️ 🏄‍♂️ 🤿 ⚓️

Random: 👀 👋 🙌 💻 🤓

Semana de Concientización Sobre las Corrientes Marinas
Ideas y Contenido Para las Redes Sociales

Página web de la campaña: www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness

En apoyo a la Semana de Concientización Sobre las Corrientes Marinas en el Golfo de México - 26 de febrero - 1 de marzo de 2024

En esta página web les ofrecemos sugerencias de contenido para las redes sociales. Algunos gráficos que acompañan parte de este contenido para las redes sociales: los gráficos que tienen un hipervínculo entre paréntesis azul oscuro después del tweet se abrirán en una nueva ventana cuando se haga clic sobre ellos. Siéntase en la libertad de descargar cualquiera de los gráficos en esta página web para compartir en las redes sociales junto con el contenido escrito.

El contenido para las redes sociales está dividido en diferentes secciones. ¿Desea acceder a una sección en particular? Haga clic sobre estos enlaces para llevarlo a la misma:

lunes - Básico Sobre Corrientes Marinas | martes - Detectando las Corrientes Marinas | miércoles - Sobreviviendo las Corrientes Marinas | jueves - Pronóstico Playero, Banderas y Recursos | viernes - Recordatorios de Seguridad

Gráficos para las Redes Sociales | Emojis de Redes Sociales

Todo Sobre las Corrientes Marinas [lunes]

🌊CORRIENTES MARINAS: Riesgo #1 de muertes debido al tiempo en las playas de la costa norte del Golfo de México.
👀213: Ese es el número de fatalidades asociadas a las #CorrientesMarinas del 2002-2023 en las playas de servicio de @NWSTallahassee y @NWSMobile. {insert Rip Current Fatality Stats graphic}

🌊#CorrientesMarinas: Poderoso y angosto canal de agua que fluye hacia afuera de la orilla. Se forman comúnmente cerca de espacios entre bancos de arena/embarcaderos/muelles. Es como una caminadora natural viajando a hasta 8 pies/segundo - más rápido que un nadador olímpico. {insert Rip Current Basics graphic}

👀 ¡No luche contra las #CorrientesMarinas! Es como una caminadora natural que viaja a una velocidad de hasta 8 pies por segundo - más rápido que un nadador olímpico.
🏊 Por esta razón, ¡las corrientes marinas son amenazantes para la vida de todo aquél que entre al oleaje! {insert NWS - Rip Current Green Dye GIF}

🌊🌴¿Se dirige a la playa?
🦩☀ Siempre verifique el pronóstico playero para sus vacaciones ANTES de que sus pies toquen la arena: www.weather.gov/beach. 🏖️ Actúe #InteligentementeEnLaPlaya. {insert NWS Beach Page graphic}

Detectando las Corrientes Marinas [martes]

🌊 Las olas NO tienen que ser enormes para que se formen #CorrientesMarinas. ¡Manténgase seguro mientras visita las playas durante sus vacaciones! 🌴
👉 ¿Cómo puede escapar de una corriente marina? ¡MANTENGA LA CALMA, HAGA SEÑALES CON LOS BRAZOS, GRITE Y FLOTE! {insert Spot The Rip Current (3) graphic}

🤓🌊 ¿Sabías que? Las #CorrientesMarinas a menudo están presentes en cortes de canales a través de los bancos de arena. ¡Estas también pueden ocurrir donde hay estructuras rígidas (cerca de ensenadas/embarcaderos/muelles) o incluso en piedras que sobresalen hacia el Golfo! {insert Spot The Rip Current (2) graphic}

👀 Pistas para detectar las #CorrientesMarinas: mire la textura del agua, color y movimiento.
🌊 A menudo las encuentras en áreas donde las olas no rompen. El canal de agua plano localizado entre las olas rompientes es la corriente marina fluyendo desde la playa hacia el mar.{insert Spot The Rip Current (1) graphic}

👀 Pistas para detectar las #CorrientesMarinas: mire la textura, color y movimiento del agua.
🌊 El agua es más oscura en una corriente marina.
🔭 Mire si hay una línea en la espuma, o algas y escombros que se alejan de la orilla. {insert Spot The Rip Current (1) graphic}

🌊 Las #CorrientesMarinas son difíciles de ver, a veces son de poca profundidad, y se pueden mover muy rápido.
🔭 Estas son más fáciles de identificar desde un punto de vista elevado, como el puesto de un salvavidas, la línea en una duna, o desde un punto de acceso a la playa. {insert Spot The Rip Current (4) graphic}

Sobreviviendo las Corrientes Marinas [miércoles]

🌴☀️ NO ASUMA NADA - El que existan condiciones del tiempo perfectas para la playa no siempre quiere decir que es seguro para nadar y jugar en el agua.
🌊 Las #CorrientesMarinas a menudo se forman en días calmados y soleados.
🏖️ Actúe #InteligentementeEnLaPlaya. {insert Sunny Days graphic}

🌊 ¡Consejos de Seguridad contra #CorrientesMarinas a saber ANTES de ir a la playa!
🏖️Verifique el pronóstico
🚩Mire si hay señales de aviso/banderas vigentes
🤔Si no está seguro de las condiciones, pregúntele a un salvavidas
🏊¡Siempre nade cerca de los salvavidas y sepa nadar! {insert Rip Current Safety Tips graphic}

🌊 Consejos de Supervivencia en la Playa:
⚠️¿Atrapado en las #CorrientesMarinas? NO ENTRE EN PÁNICO.
🏊¿Es un buen nadador? Nade paralelo a la orilla hasta que deje de sentir que está siendo arrastrado.
🤷¿No es un nadador experto? Flote.
📣¡HAGA SEÑALES CON LAS MANOS Y GRITE! {insert Rip Current Safety Tips graphic}

🤔¿Atrapado en las #CorrientesMarinas?
⚠️¡NO ENTRE EN PÁNICO!
🌊Relájese y flote para conservar la energía.
🏊¿Es un buen nadador? Nade paralelo a la orilla hasta que deje de sentir que está siendo arrastrado.
🤷¿No es un nadador experto? Flote.
📣¡HAGA SEÑALES Y GRITE! {insert How To Survive A Rip Current graphic}

🏖️¿Ve a alguien atrapado en las #CorrientesMarinas? ⛓¡No trate de rescatarlo mediante una cadena humana!
⚠️ Los bañistas que intentan rescatar de esta manera pueden terminar necesitando rescate ellos mismos.
📞Mejor - Llame al 911 y láncele un dispositivo de flotación. {insert Human Chains graphic}

🌊¿Ve a alguien en apuros en las #CorrientesMarinas? No vaya tras ellos. En cambio, ¡llame por ayuda!
🏖️¿No hay un salvavidas disponible? Lánceles un dispositivo de flotación. NO intente rescatarlos. ¡Incluso los salvavidas sólo rescatan utilizando un dispositivo de flotación! {insert Be A Hero graphic}

Pronóstico Playero, Banderas y Recursos [jueves]

🌴☀️ ¿DE VACACIONES? ¡Le tenemos una página de información con el pronóstico playero y de las #CorrientesMarinas! Visítela antes de ir hacia la playa: www.weather.gov/beach.
🌊 ¡Actúe #InteligentementeEnLaPlaya! {insert NWS Beach Page graphic}

🌊Pronósticos #CorrientesMarinas - Hay 3 niveles de riesgos en los pronósticos playeros: Bajo, Moderado, y ALTO.
🛑Un riesgo ALTO significa que las condiciones del viento, oleaje y/o las mareas están EXTREMADAMENTE favorables para el desarrollo de numerosas corrientes marinas. {insert Rip Current Forecasting graphic}

👋 ¿De vacaciones hacia la costa norte del Golfo?
🌊 Verifique nuestro pronóstico playero con información sobre las #CorrientesMarinas antes de entrar en las aguas del Golfo! www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness
🏝🥥 ¡Actúe #InteligentementeEnLaPlaya! {insert Rip Current Local Page graphic}

🏝☀️🥥 ¿Sus planes de vacaciones involucran la playa?
🚩 Siempre esté al pendiente por banderas de aviso en la playa, estas usualmente están cerca de los puestos de salvavidas.
🌊 ¡Actúe #InteligentementeEnLaPlaya y evite las #CorrientesMarinas! {insert NWS - Rip Current Safe Place graphic}

Corrientes Marinas: Recordatorios de Seguridad [viernes]

🌊#CorrientesMarinas: Poderosas y angostas corrientes de agua que se alejan de la playa. Estas son más comunes cerca de cortes en los bancos de arena y muelles/embarcaderos. Es como una caminadora natural que viaja a 8 pies por segundo - más rápido que un nadador olímpico. {insert Rip Current Basics graphic}

🌊🌴 Verifique el pronóstico playero para sus vacaciones antes de que sus pies toquen la arena: www.weather.gov/beach.
🦩☀️ ¡Actúe #InteligentementeEnLaPlaya! {insert NWS Beach Page graphic}

Los Gráficos Para Las Redes Sociales

Básico Sobre Corrientes Marinas -


Desde 2002-2023, hubo una asombrosa muerte de corrientes marinas de 213 a lo largo de la Costa norte del Golfo, que encompasan las playas de Alabama y Florida. En comparación, las estadísticas de fatalidad para otros peligros relacionados con el tiempo fueron 78 por tornados, 46 por rayos, 31 por tropical, y 19 por inundaciones.	Se proporciona información de corrientes marinas junto con una ilustración de una corriente marina que tira a alguien de la playa y una foto de un letrero de aviso de playa parpadeante en Ft Morgan. Una corriente marina es un poderoso canal de agua que se mueve lejos de la costa. Las corrientes marinas son más intensas cerca de entradas de agua, embarcaderos y muelles. Una corriente marina es peligrosa porque puede arrastrar incluso a los nadadores más fuertes al mar. Las corrientes marinas pueden ser AMENAZAS PARA CUALQUIER PERSONA QUE ENTRE en el oleaje. Siempre nade cerca de un salvavidas y siga los consejos de los sistemas de aviso de patrulla de playa y bandera de playa. ¿Atrapado en una corriente marina? No luche contra la corriente. Nade paralelo a la playa. Si no puede escapar, YELL para ayuda. Trate de relajarse y flotar o pisar el agua.

Se proporcionan consejos de identificación de corrientes marinas y supervivencia junto con fotos de corrientes marinas y banderas de playa. Una corriente marina es un poderoso canal de agua que se mueve lejos de la playa. Las corrientes marinas a menudo se encuentran en áreas donde las olas no están rompiendo. Busque una línea de espuma, algas marinas o escombros que se muevan lejos de la costa. Si queda atrapado en una corriente marina, trate de no entrar en pánico. Saluda y grite para ayuda. Nunca intente nadar contra la corriente marina, en cambio, nade paralelo a la playa y fuera de la corriente marina. Si no puede escapar de la corriente marina, flote. Si está cerca de la playa, visite el sitio web de Pronóstico de Playa del Servicio Nacional de Meteorología para el pronóstico de playa más reciente. weather.gov/beach	Lo que los pronosticadores miran para predecir el riesgo de corrientes marinas se comparte junto con una foto de fuertes corrientes marinas a lo largo de Pensacola Beach. Los pronosticadores usan la ciencia para predecir corrientes marinas cada día a lo largo de la Costa del Golfo. Dirección del Viento, Velocidad y Persistencia - El viento terrestre fuerte favorece la generación de conjuntos de olas que se mueven hacia la playa, lo que resulta en corrientes marinas fuertes y numerosas Altura de Marejada, Período y Dirección de Propagación - Marejadas con alturas de olas más altas y un período más largo que resulta en un mayor potencial para corrientes marinas fuertes. Ciclo de Marea - Un gran rango entre la marea alta y la marea baja favorece un mayor potencial para el desarrollo de corrientes marinas (especialmente durante la marea saliente). Hay 3 niveles de riesgo en el pronóstico de corrientes marinas: bajo, moderado y alto.

Detectando las Corrientes Marinas -


Se proporcionan consejos sobre cómo detectar una corriente marina junto con dos fotos de ejemplo que usan las pistas para localizar la corriente marina. Una corriente marina es un canal de agua de flujo rápido que se mueve lejos de la costa y hacia el mar. En el gráfico se proporcionan pistas para identificar una corriente marina. La pista #1 es la textura del agua - las corrientes marinas se encuentran a menudo en áreas donde las olas NO están rompiendo. Pista #2 es el color del agua - el agua es a menudo más oscura en una corriente marina. La pista #3 es el movimiento del agua - busque una línea de espuma, algas o escombros que se mueven lejos de la costa.	Se proporcionan consejos sobre cómo detectar una corriente marina junto con dos fotos de ejemplo de corrientes marinas en una playa con una que muestra un canal prominente cortado a través de un banco de arena y la otra que muestra un embarcadero. Las corrientes marinas a menudo están presentes en cortes de canal a través de bancos de arena (ejemplo en el lado izquierdo del gráfico). Las corrientes marinas también están presentes en las cercanías de entradas de agua, embarcaderos y muelles (ejemplo en el lado derecho del gráfico).

Se proporcionan consejos sobre cómo detectar una corriente marina junto con una foto fija tomada de una animación de tinte verde dejado caer en el agua en una playa, que muestra el tinte verde siendo transportado lejos de la playa en la corriente marina. El tinte verde muestra el movimiento del agua LEJOS de la costa en una corriente marina. Piense en una corriente marina como una cinta de correr en el agua. Las corrientes marinas pueden arrastrarlo RÁPIDAMENTE al Golfo de México. Las corrientes marinas son RÁPIDAS - pueden viajar tan rápido como 8 pies por segundo, lo que es más rápido que un nadador olímpico.	Se proporcionan consejos sobre cómo detectar una corriente marina junto con dos fotos aéreas de fuertes corrientes marinas a lo largo de Pensacola Beach en 2021. Las corrientes marinas son más fáciles de identificar desde un punto de vista elevado como un puesto de salvavidas, una línea de dunas o incluso en el punto de acceso a la playa. Las corrientes marinas son los canales de agua de colores más oscuros con olas que chocan en ambos lados.

Sobreviviendo las Corrientes Marinas -


Se proporcionan consejos de seguridad de corrientes marinas junto con las banderas de aviso de playa, una ilustración de una corriente marina que tira a alguien de la playa, y fotos de playas locales y las banderas de aviso de playa. Es importante siempre nadar cerca de salvavidas si es posible. Si no puede nadar, permanezca alejado del oleaje. Nadar en la playa no es lo mismo que nadar en una piscina. Las dobles banderas rojas significan que el agua está cerrada y podría ser arrestado o multado por ingresar al agua en estas condiciones. Una sola bandera roja significa un alto peligro con oleaje alto y/o corrientes fuertes. Una bandera amarilla significa un peligro medio con oleaje y/o corrientes moderadas. Una bandera verde significa un bajo peligro con condiciones tranquilas, pero todavía es prudente tener precaución. Una bandera púrpura a veces ondea con las otras banderas y significa que vida marina peligrosa está al acecho en el agua. La ausencia de banderas no determina aguas seguras.	Se proporcionan consejos sobre cómo sobrevivir a una corriente marina junto con una foto de una corriente marina e ilustraciones que denotan qué hacer en la corriente marina. Cómo sobrevivir a una corriente marina: ¡No entre en pánico! Las corrientes marinas no lo tirarán bajo el agua. No nade contra la corriente (también conocido como hacia la playa). En su lugar, nade fuera de la corriente (también conocido como paralelo a la playa). Si no puede escapar de la corriente marina, FLOAT. Grite y señale para ayuda.

Se usan tres fotos de playa brillantes y soleadas con corrientes marinas para ilustrar el punto en que las corrientes marinas a menudo ocurren en ausencia de tormentas en grandes días de playa; en días tranquilos y soleados; en días con temperaturas de agua cálidas; y en días con oleaje bajo.	Se proporcionan consejos sobre la manera correcta para ayudar si ve a alguien atrapado en una corriente marina en la playa junto con varias fotos de rescates de corrientes marinas y una cadena humana. Es fácil subestimar la potencia del agua y se agota rápidamente en una corriente marina. En algunos casos, los bañistas intentaron un rescate de corrientes marinas vinculando los brazos para formar lo que se llama una cadena humana (esto no se recomienda). Los bañistas que intentan un rescate de corriente marina como una cadena humana o por sí mismos pueden terminar necesitando ser rescatados. Siempre permita que un salvavidas haga el rescate de corrientes marinas. Si está visitando la playa y ve a alguien en peligro, estas son las mejores acciones a tomar: Alerte a un salvavidas o LLAME 9-1-1 si un salvavidas no está disponible. Grite al nadador angustiado que FLOTE o AGUA DE LA BANDA DE RODAD. Lance un dispositivo de flotación al nadador angustiado (las buenas opciones son una tabla de boogie, un enfriador o fideos/balsas de piscina). Grite al nadador angustiado que PERMANEZCA CALMO.

Se proporcionan consejos sobre cómo ser un héroe en la playa junto con una imagen de una mujer con una capa de superhéroe. ¿Ve a alguien en problemas? Es importante conocer sus opciones para mantenerse a sí mismo y a los demás a su alrededor seguros cuando visite la playa. ¿Ve a alguien atrapado en una corriente marina? PERMANEZCA CALMADO e inmediatamente obtenga la atención de un salvavidas cercano. ¿Salvavidas no disponible? LLAME al 911 para obtener ayuda. IMPORTANTE: No sea una víctima. Siempre permita que un salvavidas haga el rescate de corrientes marinas, para que USTED no termine necesitando ser rescatado. ¡La MANERA CORRECTA De Ayudar! Escanee sus alrededores y lánzalos algo que flote. ¿No está seguro de qué flota? Busque artículos más grandes cerca de usted como una tabla de boogie, un enfriador vacío, o incluso fideos/balsas de piscina. Protéjase para que pueda proteger a otros - no intente un rescate de corriente marina usted mismo o como una cadena humana. Incluso los salvavidas solo intentan rescates de corriente marina usando un dispositivo de flotación.	Los recursos de playa para las playas a lo largo de la costa de Alabama y a través del noroeste de Florida se incluyen en esta infografía. Para una versión de este gráfico en la que se puede hacer clic, vaya a www.weather.gov/tae/ripcurrentawareness y seleccione la pestaña Banderas de Playa/Recursos.

Se muestra un mapa de los Estados Unidos con sombrillas coloridas alineadas a lo largo de la Costa del Golfo, la Costa Este, el sur de California y la región de los Grandes Lagos. Cada paraguas se corresponde con la Oficina del SNM que emite pronósticos de corriente de playa y marinas para esa área. Al hacer clic en uno de los paraguas en el sitio web del SNM Beach lo llevará al pronóstico de playa local.	Se muestra un mapa de la Costa norte del Golfo con sombrillas coloridas alineadas a lo largo de la costa. Cada paraguas se corresponde con las playas cubiertas por las Oficinas Nacionales de Servicio Meteorológico en Mobile, AL y Tallahassee, FL. Al hacer clic en un paraguas en el sitio web de la playa local lo llevará al pronóstico local.

Más Gráficos de Corrientes Marinas -


Se muestra un mapa de un área costera ficticia en el fondo con un sistema tropical que se avecina en la distancia y las olas se dirigen hacia las playas. El texto en el gráfico dice: Los huracanes distantes pueden ser mortales. Los huracanes que están lejos todavía pueden crear corrientes marinas y olas mortales. Nunca diga que el océano sea seguro, incluso si el tiempo es agradable. Para la máxima seguridad, nade cerca de un salvavidas. Verifique el pronóstico antes de ir en weather.gov/beach.	¿Listo Meteorológicamente para la Playa? corrientes marinas y Olas Peligrosas: Nade en playas con salvavidas, y nunca nade a solas. Si queda atrapado en una corriente: no entre en pánico, pida ayuda, y nade paralelo a la orilla. Supervise a nadadores jóvenes o con poca experiencia. Calor Excesivo: Manténgase hidratado. Vista ropa clara y ligera, y utilice protector solar. Relájese en la sombra y refrésquese en el agua. Rayos: Si escucha truenos o ve relámpagos, entre inmediatamente a un edificio o un vehículo cubierto.

Ayudando a Otros: Peligros Playeros: Eduque a las personas que no están familiarizadas con los peligros de la playa. Si alguien pide ayuda, tómese 10 segundos para evaluar la situación y luego avise a un salvavidas. Mientras llega la ayuda, mire si hay un dispositivo de flotación para lanzarle.	Su Lugar Seguro de corrientes marinas: Las corrientes marinas matan a más de 50 bañistas en los EE.UU. cada año. Cuando visite el mar, estará más seguro en las playas con salvavidas. Si se pronostican corrientes marinas en la playa que está visitando, manténgase fuera del agua.

Se muestra una imagen con olas rompientes con el texto: ¿atrapado en una corriente marina? Aquí le explicamos cómo sobrevivir. Relájese, mantenga la calma y flote para conservar la energía; nade fuera de la corriente siguiendo la orilla o las olas rompientes, luego en un ángulo en dirección hacia la playa; evite nadar directamente contra la corriente; si no puede llegar a la orilla, grite o agite sus manos para pedir ayuda.	Solo nade en playas donde esté presente un salvavidas. Su vida puede depender de ello.

Se proporcionan consejos para escapar de una corriente marina junto con una ilustración de una corriente marina que tira a alguien lejos de la playa con el subtítulo que indica conocer sus opciones. Las corrientes marinas son poderosas corrientes de agua que se mueven lejos de la costa. Pueden arrastrar incluso al nadador más fuerte lejos de la costa. Si es posible, nade cerca de un salvavidas. Consejos si Atrapado en una Corriente Marina: Trate de relajarse ya que las corrientes marinas no lo tiran bajo el agua. No nade contra la corriente. Nade fuera de la corriente, luego hacia la playa. Si no puede escapar, flote o pisa el agua. Si necesita ayuda, grite o señale para la assistencia	Esta animación muestra tinte verde dejado caer en el agua en una playa. El tinte verde se transporta rápidamente lejos de la playa en la corriente marina. El tinte verde muestra el movimiento del agua LEJOS de la costa en una corriente marina. Piense en una corriente marina como una cinta de correr en el agua. Las corrientes marinas pueden arrastrarlo RÁPIDAMENTE al Golfo de México.