Life-Threatening Surf and Rip Currents Expected Along Gulf Coast
Life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents are expected along the coasts of Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties, prompting a High Surf Warning and High Rip Current Risk from the National Weather Service.
Coastal residents and visitors in Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties are urged to stay out of the water due to a High Surf Warning and High Rip Current Risk. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Mobile, Alabama, has issued these alerts, effective immediately.
A High Surf Warning is in effect from 7 AM CDT Friday until 10 AM CDT Sunday. Dangerously large breaking waves are expected, reaching 6 to 10 feet Friday morning, building to 12 to 18 feet along Alabama beaches and 20 to 25 feet along northwest Florida beaches by late Friday afternoon. These conditions are expected to persist overnight Friday into Saturday, gradually abating late Saturday.
A High Rip Current Risk is also in effect through late Saturday night. The NWS warns that breaking waves can sweep individuals off jetties and docks, leading to dangerous conditions. Life-threatening swimming conditions and significant beach erosion are anticipated. Rip currents can quickly pull even strong swimmers away from shore.
Instructions: Everyone should remain out of the water. Stay off jetties, piers, and other waterside infrastructure. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Do not swim against the current. If able, swim parallel to the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.
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