Coast Guard warns swimmers of possible upcoming rip currents

MGN

MIAMI (AP) – The Coast Guard has advised beachgoers to exercise caution while at beaches off the coasts of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina due to the increased possibility of rip currents caused by Hurricane Joaquin.

A rip current is a powerful channel of water that flows quickly away from shore caused by strong waves and winds. Anything caught in a rip current can be pulled out into deeper seas.

The Coast Guard says the way to escape a rip current is to swim parallel to the shore. Swimmers should not attempt to swim directly against the current, as it is easy for even strong swimmers to become exhausted.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, South Carolina and Florida account for 19 of the 34 nationwide rip current deaths so far in 2015.

Local Headlines

4 endangered Florida panther deaths in April bring 2024 total to 11

Two more endangered Florida panthers were discovered dead by wildlife officials after the animals were struck by vehicles in Collier and Hendry counties.

Cape Coral mayor provides update on FEMA flood insurance

Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter says he and Lee County officials are asking for more time before FEMA removes the flood insurance discount for residents.

Wildfire on Alico Road now 95% contained

The nearly 11-acre wildfire near Alico Road in Fort Myers continues to burn as crews battle to contain it.

Lee Health launches new MyChart accessibility for Spanish speakers

Lee Health announced on Tuesday that it has launched a Spanish-language version of the digital patient portal MyChart.

Gov. DeSantis signs bill to enhance Florida education

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed legislation supporting education for working students who are in school, military training or in some form classical education.