Rip Current Statement Issued: Dangerous Conditions on Island Beaches
A Rip Current Statement is in effect for Kenedy, Willacy, and Cameron Island counties until Sunday morning, with dangerous rip currents, high surf, and coastal flooding expected. Inexperienced swimmers should avoid the water, and beach driving will be limited.
Residents and visitors in Kenedy Island, Willacy Island, and Cameron Island counties are advised of a Rip Current Statement issued by the National Weather Service in Brownsville, TX, effective immediately until Sunday morning, October 11.
Dangerous rip currents are expected. Swimmers are urged to exercise extreme caution. Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to hazardous surf conditions, with large breaking waves of 4 to 7 feet in the surf zone through Saturday evening.
A Coastal Flood Advisory is also in effect until 7 AM CDT Sunday, bringing minor coastal flooding. Nuisance flooding is anticipated, with water potentially reaching or pushing into the dunes on South Padre Island. Driving on the beach, particularly north of Public Beach Access #3, will be restricted to vehicles with four-wheel drive and high wheel bases only. Minor to moderate beach erosion is expected.
If caught in a rip current, the National Weather Service advises to relax and float. Do not attempt to swim against the current. If able, swim parallel to the shoreline. If escape is not possible, face the shore and call or wave for help. If travel is required in affected areas, allow extra time for potential road closures. Do not drive around barricades or through floodwaters of unknown depth. Property owners in flood-prone areas should take necessary protective actions. Max inundation will occur near high tide cycles each afternoon.
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