Beachgoers in New York City are instructed to stay alert after the National Weather Service has issued moderate rip current warnings for New York beaches. Rip current warnings can be life-threatening, and surfers must avoid entering the surf zone till the warnings are in effect. If you are someone who wants to know more about the rip current warnings issued for New York beaches, the following article is for you. It brings you everything you need to know about the warnings, including information on how to react if you encounter a rip current during surfing.
What Does the National Weather Service Say About Rip Current Risk?
According to the information available on the official website of the National Weather Service, the risk from rip currents is categorized into three categories. The first category is low risk, which means there is a slight possibility of rip currents occurring near jetties or piers. Similarly, the second category is a moderate risk, which means the weather conditions support the formation of rip currents. The third category is high risk, which means dangerous rip currents are highly possible, and everyone should avoid going to the surf. According to the reports, the risk level of rip currents on Monday is moderate, which means it is still dangerous for beachgoers to enter the waters.
How Dangerous Can A Rip Current Be?
According to the National Weather Service, the rip currents can be pretty dangerous for even the most experienced surfers. Even if you are one of the best swimmers, you can still be swept away from the shore in case a rip current occurs. Therefore, anyone visiting the beaches at this time should practice caution. The risk warning for rip currents for New York beaches on Sunday was high, and it is going to stay moderate on Monday. There are still significant chances of a rip current occurring on any of the New York shores. The officials have urged people to stay out of the surf zones till the local warnings stay in effect.
What Are The Safety Tips To Follow While A Rip Current Warning Is In Effect?
In case your local authorities have issued a warning about the possible occurrence of rip currents at the beaches, you must never swim alone. You must always swim in a lifeguard-protected beach area. In case you are going for a swim without a lifeguard, make sure you have someone accompanying you who can call emergency services for you. You must obey all the instructions the lifeguards give and also avoid going near any jetties or piers. If you have children accompanying you, ensure their safety at all times. In case you have doubts before going into the water, it is better not to go, or ask a lifeguard about the current conditions to ensure safety.
What To Do If You Are Stuck In A Rip Current?
In case you are stuck in a rip current, do not panic and conserve your energy for clear thinking. Always remember that fighting against the current is never fruitful. You can swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline and then swim at an angle away from the current toward the shore. In case you are not able to swim properly, you can float instead or call for help if needed. If you are someone who’s on the shore and sees someone who’s stuck in the current and needs help, throw a flotation device toward them. Do not jump into the waters yourself, as it may put your life in danger as well. If they still can’t get out, call the emergency services or the lifeguards for help.
