High Rip Current Threat For East Central Florida During Spring Break

COCOA BEACH, Florida – The National Weather Service in Melbourne issued a Rip Current warning of a high rip current risk along East Central Florida that will remain in effect through late tonight.

Numerous life-threatening rip currents are forecast along the beaches of Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, Saint Lucie, and Martin Counties.

Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing quickly away from shore, which occur most often at low spots or breaks in the sandbar and in the vicinity of structures such as groins, jetties, and piers.

Remember to swim near a lifeguard and do not swim alone. Ask the beach patrol about ocean hazards when you arrive at the beach.

If you become caught in a rip current – do not panic – but yell for help.

Remain calm and do not exhaust yourself. Stay afloat while waiting for help.

If you have to swim out of a rip current, begin to swim parallel to the shore.

Once you are away from the force of the rip current, begin to swim back to the beach.

Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current. Even a strong swimmer can become exhausted quickly.