Rip Current Statement Issued for Kenedy, Willacy, and Cameron Islands

Residents and visitors in Kenedy Island, Willacy Island, and Cameron Island are advised to exercise extreme caution due to a Rip Current Statement issued by the National Weather Service Brownsville TX. This statement is effective immediately, October 9 at 6:34 PM CDT, and remains in effect until October 11 at 7:00 AM CDT.

A High Surf Advisory is also in effect until 7:00 PM CDT Saturday, with large breaking waves of 4 to 7 feet expected in the surf zone. A Coastal Flood Advisory is in place until 7:00 AM CDT Sunday, anticipating minor coastal flooding. The high rip current risk will persist through Sunday morning.

Impacts include nuisance flooding, with water potentially reaching or pushing into the dunes on South Padre Island. Vehicles without four-wheel drive and high wheel bases will be unable to drive on the beach, particularly north of Public Beach Access #3. Minor to moderate beach erosion is expected, along with dangerous swimming and surfing conditions. Rip currents can sweep even strong swimmers away from shore into deeper water.

If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take necessary actions to protect flood-prone property. Inexperienced swimmers should remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions. If swimming, do so near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Do not swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.