How to spot a rip current?

Using the ocean conditions and the color of the water, experienced boaters can usually spot a rip current. If the swells are breaking rather than flowing smoothly, it’s likely a rip current. If the water color is darker than the waves surrounding it, it’s likely a rip current even if the swells are not breaking. A good indicator that you might be in a rip current is if you notice a current pulling you toward shore or if you notice a large group of people

How to know if you're in a rip tide?

To see if you're in a rip current, look at the shoreline and try to count the number of visible waves. If you notice a line of waves stretching out toward the shore it’s likely you’re in a rip current. If the line of waves forms a V, you’re probably in a rip current. Rip currents generally move at about 3 miles per hour, so you might not notice if you’re in one unless you’re paying close

How to know if you're in a rip current?

If you’re out on the water and feel as if someone is tugging on your boat, that’s definitely a sign that you’re in a rip current. To make sure you’re not caught unaware, pay attention to the weather and water conditions. If you notice a big difference in water color or temperature, or even if the water is moving quickly, it could be a sign of a developing rip current.

How to avoid rip current?

Rip currents occur when surface water flows quickly toward shore in a channel between two bodies of water. A rip current can form when water from the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean curls northward around an island or peninsula, flowing inland. It’s important to know how to spot a rip current because it can be dangerous when you’re not paying attention.

How to spot a rip tide?

A rip current is a strong wave that runs down the coast at any time of year, especially when the wind blows from the south. The wave tends to pull swimmers away from the shore, so make sure to pay close attention to the water level and act accordingly if you see signs that a rip current is forming. Also, avoid swimming near jetties, piers, boat-launching sites, river mouths, and other areas where the water flows quickly.