Isolated strong to severe thunderstorms capable of gusty winds, hail, and isolated flash flooding will be possible across parts of the Plains through Wednesday. Critical fire weather is possible on Wednesday in southwest New Mexico. Excessive rainfall may result in some flooding in the northern High Plains late this week. Read More >
The map below is color-coded to indicate the forecast rip current risk level. Click on the beach area of your choice for more information, or click a beach umbrella for the detailed, beach forecast. View the product description document for more information on the rip current graphic. Comments are currently being accepted. |
Risk Level | Description | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Low | The risk of rip currents is low, however, life threatening rip currents may still occur especially near groins, jetties, reefs, and piers. Always swim near a lifeguard and remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Moderate | Life threatening rip currents are possible. Always swim near a lifeguard and remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
High | Life threatening rip currents are likely. The surf zone is dangerous for all levels of swimmers. Stay out of the water. Remember to heed the advice of the local beach patrol and flag warning systems. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Danger of Rip Currents
![]() Rip currents are powerful, channeled currents of water flowing away from shore. They typically extend from the shoreline, through the surf zone, and past the line of breaking waves. Rip currents can occur at any beach with breaking waves. If you become caught in a rip current, yell for help and remain calm. Do not exhaust yourself and stay afloat while waiting for help. If you have to swim out of a rip current, swim parallel to shore and back toward the beach when possible. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current as you will tire quickly. ![]() View rip current safety videos at the National Weather Service YouTube channel. |
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Additional Resources
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