How to spot a rip current

To an untrained eye, detecting a rip current can be extremely challenging. Personally, I had never even considered them until I began reading about them a few years ago.

However, there are several signs to be mindful of. Firstly, pay attention to the direction of the waves. Ideally, waves should be moving towards the beach, breaking near the shore with a frothy, white crest.

In contrast, a rip current may present itself as a seemingly tranquil stretch of water amidst the bustling coastline, creating a noticeable contrast with the surrounding area.

For those who are not well-acquainted with the ocean, a rip current can easily be misinterpreted as a calm and wave-free area – it may look like the perfect spot to enter the water. If you notice the water starting to split or the waves moving away from the shore, be sure to steer clear of that area. It’s crucial that nobody swims there, and if you see someone about to enter the water or areas that appear risky or associated with rip currents, kindly alert them.

CONTINUE READING ON THE NEXT PAGE

Advertisement: