NWS warns of dangerous rip currents on Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Escambia beaches

The National Weather Service has issued a Rip Current Statement for the Gulf coast beaches of Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties in Florida, and Mobile and Baldwin coastal counties in Alabama. The alert was published at 7:08 a.m. Central Daylight Time on Monday, Oct. 19, and says the danger lasts through late Monday, Oct. 19.

What the alert says

According to the alert, “Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.” The hazard covers the coastal areas of Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties in Florida.

What to do if caught in a rip current

The alert advises: “Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t 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.”

Source: NWS alert text