Dangerous rip currents are expected along Mobile and Baldwin County beaches from Tuesday morning through late Wednesday night, according to a coastal weather advisory covering the area’s Gulf-facing shorelines. Officials warned that the currents can sweep even strong swimmers away from shore and into deeper water.
Beachgoers are urged to swim only near a lifeguard during the advisory period. Anyone caught in a rip current is advised to stay calm and float rather than fight the pull of the water, since swimming directly against a rip current can quickly exhaust even experienced swimmers.
If possible, swimmers caught in a current should swim parallel to the shoreline until they are out of the current’s pull before turning back toward the beach. Anyone unable to escape a rip current is advised to face the shore and call or wave for help rather than continuing to struggle against the water.
Local officials routinely issue these advisories during periods of elevated surf and shifting Gulf conditions, and residents and visitors planning beach trips this week are encouraged to check local conditions and flag warnings before entering the water.