Rip Current Advisories Go Up in Tampa Bay

Beachgoers in the Tampa Bay area are being urged to be careful as conditions on the Gulf are ripe for rip current formation.

The National Weather Service anticipates a moderate risk of rip currents along the Pinellas, Hillsborough, Sarasota and Manatee coastlines through Tuesday evening. The risk is an extension of Monday’s warnings. It is unclear at this time if conditions will continue into Wednesday.

Rip currents are powerful channels of water that flow rapidly away from shore, forecasters explained in Tuesday’s Beach Hazards Statement. These currents can pull swimmers away from shore. Those caught up in them are advised to swim parallel to the shore until they are away from the current’s force.

“Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current,” forecasters warn. “Even a strong swimmer can become exhausted quickly.”

To avoid rip current encounters, forecasters advise beachgoers to heed local lifeguard warnings and keep their eyes open for flags and posted signs.

Tuesday’s weather is expected to bring a 20 percent chance of isolated thunderstorms throughout the region. The high should climb into the low 90s. Storm activity is expected to increase Wednesday with a 40 percent chance forecast in the afternoon hours and a 30 percent chance overnight.

For an extended forecast, visit your local Patch’s homepage.

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