An alert from New York City’s official emergency notification system and the National Weather Service are both warning beachgoers about dangerous ocean conditions, with life-threatening rip currents expected through Tuesday evening at 9pm.
Officials are urging New Yorkers to stay out of the water at any beach displaying a red flag, particularly if lifeguards are not on duty, as even experienced swimmers can be quickly pulled away from shore by powerful currents.
The warning comes just days after similar advisories were issued along New York’s coastline, as a stretch of unsettled ocean conditions continues to create hazardous swimming conditions. Rip currents are among the leading beach hazards in the United States and can form unexpectedly, carrying swimmers away from shore in a matter of seconds.
The alert also arrives as warmer temperatures and sunny weather draw crowds to beaches across the city. With many New Yorkers heading to the shore to cool off, officials are reminding visitors to swim only at beaches with lifeguards present and to pay close attention to posted warning flags and safety advisories before entering the water.
Beach warning flags are designed to quickly communicate water conditions to visitors. A red flag signals dangerous surf and strong currents, indicating that swimming is strongly discouraged and may be prohibited in certain areas. Beachgoers should always follow lifeguard instructions and posted signage, as conditions can change rapidly throughout the day.
If you become caught in a rip current, experts advise staying calm and avoiding the instinct to swim directly back toward shore.
Instead, swim parallel to the beach until you are out of the current’s pull, then make your way back to land at an angle. If you are unable to escape, float or tread water and signal for help.
