Rip Current Awareness

Rip currents are caused by waves generated by offshore winds, wave energy from the open ocean, and underwater formations.

They form when water flows from the shallow beach area back to the deeper ocean, creating a fast-moving current.

How dangerous are rip currents?

Rip currents can be very dangerous.

• They can pull swimmers out to sea, moving faster than an average swimmer.
  • Rip currents can move up to 8 feet per second, which is as fast as an Olympic swimmer.
• Escaping rip currents can be challenging as they are often hard to see and can tire swimmers quickly.

How can I identify a rip current?

• Look for signs like choppy or discolored water, foam, or debris moving away from the shore.
• Gaps in breaking waves can also indicate a rip current.

What should I do if I get caught in a rip current?

Stay Calm

• Swim parallel to the shore to escape the current, then swim back to the beach at an angle.
• If you cannot swim out, float or tread water and signal for help.

What precautions can I take to avoid rip currents?

• Always swim at lifeguarded beaches, stay informed about local conditions, and heed warning flags.
• Swim with others, stay close to shore, and know how to identify and escape rip currents.

What should I do if someone else is caught in a rip current?

• Alert a lifeguard or call 911.
• Throw a flotation device if available, but do not enter the water yourself, as this can put you at risk.

Beach Warning Flags

Shore Beach Services uses red flags, yellow flags, and purple flags through the months of March through October to signify current conditions on Hilton Head Island.

• Red flags indicate rough conditions
• Yellow flags indicate moderate to light conditions
• Purple flags indicate jellyfish, stingrays, and dangerous fish in the water

Videos

Rip Current Science

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Break the Grip of the Rip

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Resources