The latest statistics, videos and resources on rip currents and other water hazards
It's important to know about the dangers of rip currents before you enter the water. Do you know what one looks like and how to get out of it, should you become trapped in its grip? This photo shows a rip current, between the red arrows, in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina in 2015. (Image credit: NOAA)
Planning a beach vacation this Independence Day or for later this summer? NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS) wants you to know how to stay safe when you’re in the water.
Know before you go
Have fun, but be aware of rip currents and other water-related hazards. One of the best ways to improve your odds of a safe day at the beach is to visit beaches that are protected by lifeguards. Lifeguards will post flags noting which water hazards are present in the area each day. Make sure you and your family know how to avoid danger and look for changing conditions. Keep small children in sight and within arm’s reach at all times.
Staying safe at the beach starts with you. Knowing the dangers of rip currents and other beach and water-related hazards could save your life. NWS provides informative articles, graphics and videos on the web, as well as in-person rip current safety information at many beach locations throughout the country.
More than one third of the 97 rip current and surf zone fatalities offsite link across the U.S. in 2023 happened during the months of June and July. Nearly 90% of victims from rip currents, high surf and sneaker waves were male.
Break the grip of the rip
NOAA predicts an above-normal 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. Hurricanes and tropical storms can cause rip currents and increase dangers along the beach. Whether tropical cyclones are close to the coast or many hundreds of miles away, never assume the ocean is safe —rip currents can occur in all kinds of weather.
If you see someone caught in a rip current:
- Carefully assess the situation and get help from a lifeguard.
- If no lifeguard is available, call 9-1-1.
- Advise the person to follow the shoreline and if possible, throw the person something that floats.
- Never enter the water yourself without a floatation device in effort to save someone else. Many people have died trying to rescue someone caught in a rip current.
Ride the wave or play it safe?
Rip currents aren’t the only life-threatening water hazards at the beach — waves can be just as dangerous.
Our Play It Safe videos share the dangers of wave action and rip currents, particularly along Gulf Coast Beaches and Great Lakes shorelines.
Our Ocean Today Wave Safe video series shares unique characteristics and hazards associated with wave types throughout the nation. Learn how to stay safe wave safe in American Samoa Hawaii, the Pacific Northwest, California and the East Coast.
Knowledge is power! Familiarize yourself with the most common dangers in the locations you plan to visit, be mindful of your surroundings… and have fun!
