How to identify a rip current?

A rip current is a strong, sometimes powerful, flowing current of water moving rapidly into or away from shore, sometimes at a great depth. To determine if you are in a rip current, observe the ocean and the water around you. Look for a large area of darker water or a line of darker water stretching out from shore. This darker color is caused by the swirling motion of the current. If there is a line of darker water, it is likely that the current is moving away from you.

How to detect a rip current?

You can easily spot a rip current if you pay close attention to the water. Look for small waves crashing into shore or jagged whitecaps breaking into the ocean. If you see a large wave breaking, it may be a rivermouth wave. If you notice two waves breaking at the same time, you may have a rip current. As the current flows toward shore, it will pull floating objects toward the shoreline, so keep an eye out for anything that might be drifting.

Identifying a rip current?

If you’re not sure whether you’re in a rip current, look at the water line. If you can see the water line moving toward the shore, you are in a rip current. Rip currents can be quite strong, so make sure you stay aware of the water. Rip currents can also damage boats, especially kayaks, so always wear a life jacket and stay close to shore.

How to avoid a rip current?

If you plan to be on water, don’t be fooled by the weather. The conditions may seem calm, but a rip current can pull you off course and leave you stranded. Be aware of where the water is moving and avoid being in standing water or water that is moving in a large circular motion. Also, avoid being near any shoreline or boat traffic as these areas are often targeted by rip currents.

How to recognize a rip current?

Rip currents are powerful and dangerous forces of water. They can travel at up to 20 miles per hour, dragging unsuspecting swimmers out to sea. Water doesn’t flow slowly when it’s caught up in this current. You can easily spot a rip current if you see a line of foam or a wall of water rushing along the shore. However, if you’re not close to the water, you may not be able to see a visible rip current.