Dangerous rip currents expected in New York waters: How to stay safe
NEW YORK (PIX11) — With storms expected throughout the week in New York, waves and rip currents could reach dangerous levels.
Lifeguards can close sections of beach at their discretion based on what they're seeing in real time, but there are no beach-wide closures around New York City due to the rip current statements from the National Weather Service, according to the Parks and Recreation Department.
There are currently rip tide warnings in Kings County, Queens County, Nassau County and Suffolk County.
"Life-threatening rip currents are likely for all people entering the surf zone," the NWS statements read.
Tips to stay safe in rip currents:
To spot a rip tide, look for a noticeable difference in water color in a particular area or a break in the incoming wave patterns.
If you get caught in a rip current, it's important not to panic or become erratic. You'll need your energy to pull yourself out.
Begin by swimming parallel to shore. Do not try to swim against the current — you may get exhausted fast and be pulled out further.
Once you are away from the force of the current, you can swim back to the beach.
Spencer Gustafson is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered New York state and city news since 2023. See more of his work here.