National Weather Service Issues High Surf Advisory In 5 Counties

TAMPA BAY, FL — If you plan on spending Saturday at the beach, beware.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte counties through Saturday at 1 p.m.

In addition, a high rip current risk remains in effect through Saturday evening.

The advisory was issued at 11:32 a.m. Friday.

The NWS said coastal areas are experiencing large breaking waves of 4 to 6 feet, which can produce dangerous swimming and surfing conditions as well as localized beach erosion.

Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.