Cooper Lewis ‘26, News Editor
We have likely all been to the beach. The sun shining in the clear sky, the warm sand under our feet, and the sound of waves hitting the shore. It is a peaceful time for many. But often enough, beachgoers are unaware of what danger lurks just off the shore.
The National Weather Service (NWS) describes a rip current as a “powerful channel of water that moves away from the shore.” It does not take much for a rip current to grab hold of a swimmer, and once it does, it does not let go.
In 2023 alone, there were nearly 70 cases of rip current-related deaths. Rip currents are not to be underestimated, and it is for this reason that the NWS has dedicated the week of Feb. 26 to spreading rip current awareness.
This institution aims to inform the public about rip currents, specifically how to spot them, what they are, and how to avoid them.
Whilst this is a nationwide event, beaches in Panama City, FL have dedicated themselves to seriously promoting it. Florida is popular among students as a Spring Break destination, so this week-long event could not have come at a better time. With the oncoming break at the end of March, if you are planning a trip to Florida, or already have plans to go, be sure you are educated on these rip currents before entering large bodies of water. Read about them, check the National Weather Service’s website, and always stay alert. You do not want your vacation to be ruined by these deadly currents.
Rip currents are common all across Northwest Florida on clear and sunny days. They are also more common and apparent near jetties and piers. How does one spot a rip current? Rip currents are often in places where water is not breaking. Flat water amidst rocking waves is typically a clear-cut sign of a rip current. The best way to stop a rip current is from an elevated position overlooking the beach. Whether that be a parking lot, sand dune, beach access, etc. Remember to always watch the water for several minutes before entering, as rip currents can rapidly change. Channelized currents are the easiest to spot, as they typically appear as a dark spot in the water. They also appear breaking through the surf, so look for dark paths in the water. Look for narrowed regions of choppy water heading away from shore. Waves that are moving towards shore while fighting rip currents may appear steeper, which leads to a different texture on the water surface. And finally, look for clumps of sand floating in the water offshore, these clumps of sand have been taken from the shore by currents.
In the case you are caught in a rip current, stay calm. Swim parallel along the beach until you are clear of the current. If you are unsure about whether or not the water is safe, ask a lifeguard. They will almost always know whether rip currents are a present danger at that specific beach. If you happen to be in the water, and still feel uneasy, swim near a lifeguard or a crowded group of people.
Since 2002, there have been nearly 215 rip current-related deaths. That is more than tornadoes, floods, lightning, and tropical storms combined. These currents can travel as fast as eight feet per second, that is faster than the average Olympic swimmer. Even the strongest swimmers can still be easily swept out to sea. Keep in mind that rip currents will not pull you under the water, they will merely pull you away from the beach.
These currents are clearly not something that should be messed with, so while on Spring Break this year, stay alert and pay attention to the water. If you do not feel safe, do not go. Spring Break is meant to be a week of fun, not tragedy.
Lyon Life 