There is a high risk of rip currents at Panhandle beaches until Sunday, according to the Florida Division of Emergency Management.
“Weather conditions may begin to improve this weekend, but beachgoers and boaters should still remember to use caution when enjoying the water,” said FDEM Deputy State Meteorologist Tiffany Hersey in a news release. “The high rip current risk is expected to continue through the weekend due to onshore winds combined with the recent disturbed weather pattern.”
Rip currents are strong currents that run perpendicular to shore and into the ocean.
Colored beach flags indicate the current conditions of the water, including whether rip currents are a threat.
Yellow flags flew on Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Walton County beaches on Thursday.
Find out about Okaloosa beach conditions at the Okaloosa County Beach Safety Facebook page. >>
Find out about Santa Rosa beach conditions on the county's website. >>
Find out about Walton beach conditions on the South Walton Fire District Facebook page. >>
Different beaches may use different colors but a commonly used series include:
- Double Red: beach is closed to the public
- Single Red: high hazard, e.g., strong surf or currents
- Yellow: medium hazard
- Green: calm conditions although caution is still necessary
- Purple: flown with either red or yellow: dangerous marine life
When at the beach:
- Stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties. Permanent rip currents often exist alongside these structures.
- Pay especially close attention to children and persons who are elderly when at the beach. Even in shallow water, wave action can cause loss of footing.
- Be cautious. Always assume rip currents are present even if you don’t see them.
If caught in a rip current:
- DON’T PANIC. Remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly.
- NEVER swim against the rip. Stay afloat and signal for help.
- Swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle--away from the current--towards shore.
- If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water.
- Draw attention to yourself: face the shore, wave your arms, and yell for help.
- If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim too:
- Get help from a lifeguard or, if one is unavailable, have someone call 9-1-1.
- Throw the rip current victim something that floats--a lifejacket, a cooler, an inflatable ball.
- Yell instructions on how to escape.
Practice Safe Boating:
- Check forecasts well ahead of time.
- Be sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket.
- If caught in a thunderstorm, go below deck if possible, and stay away from masts or ungrounded metal objects.
- Have a VHF marine band radio on board.
- Know the limitations of your boat. If small craft advisories or gale warnings are issued, you should postpone travel.