A high risk for rip currents has been issued to the New York City area by the National Weather Service through Friday night. Beaches stretching across Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island have been put under high risk, while a moderate risk has been issued for a large part of the New Jersey shore, specifically from Sandy Hook to Ocean County.
Hazardous conditions at beaches across the Northeast and New York City area have been constant throughout the summer. Rip currents have resulted in a large portion of swimming deaths at beaches largely due to how often swimmers underestimate them. However, the National Weather Service noted that it’s the combination of rip currents and harsh waves that resulted in some beaches closing altogether.
Beachgoers who are determined to swim are advised to swim only where lifeguards are present and wear flotation devices. According to the National Weather Service, swimmers are advised not to try to swim against the current if they happen to get pulled out to sea, as that will only tire a person out. Instead, swim in a direction that is parallel to the current or follows the shoreline if able. Otherwise, relax and float.
Outside of the rip currents, temperatures are said to remain dry and less humid throughout the weekend, in addition to light winds. Beachgoers are encouraged to keep tabs on the status of the rip currents and other happenings at beaches for their and their families’ safety.
