Swimmers planning to head to Long Island’s south shore and New York City beaches should be cautious today, as the National Weather Service has issued a moderate rip current advisory through Tuesday.
This advisory is in place as summer crowds flock to the waterfront, and beachgoers are urged to stay alert for dangerous conditions.
Moderate Rip Current Risk for NYC Beaches
The National Weather Service New York office has issued a warning for all south-facing beaches from the Rockaways and Jones Beach to Hamptons communities, with the risk of rip currents remaining moderate through at least Tuesday evening.
Rip currents can pose serious hazards to swimmers, especially in areas like Long Beach, Robert Moses State Park, and Fire Island, which are popular beach destinations. Lifeguards and local authorities are advising swimmers to stay close to shore, swim near a lifeguard, and pay attention to posted beach warning flags.
Tips for Staying Safe in Rip Currents
Rip currents are known to quickly pull swimmers away from shore. Lifeguards advise beachgoers to always swim near a staffed lifeguard and follow the instructions of local patrols. It’s also crucial to never swim alone, especially as waves tend to grow throughout the afternoon.
If caught in a rip current, remember to remain calm. Experts recommend floating, waving for help, and swimming parallel to the shore to escape the current. Recent years have seen multiple rescues due to rip currents, which are the leading weather-related hazard at New York’s beaches each summer.
Sun Safety Reminders
In addition to rip currents, beachgoers should also protect themselves from the sun. The UV levels for today are rated as “very high,” and officials recommend applying sunscreen, wearing hats, and minimizing sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Stay Updated on Safety
The rip current advisory is expected to last through Tuesday night, with updates available as beach and surf conditions change. Before heading to the beach, check for the latest safety information at weather.gov/beach.
