A rip current statement was issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 3:28 a.m. valid from Friday midnight until Saturday 6 a.m. for Mobile and Baldwin counties.

The weather service describes, “Dangerous rip currents expected.”

“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” states the weather service. “Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.”

Navigating rip currents: Your survival manual

Rip currents, swift channels of water flowing away from the shore at surf beaches, can turn a day at the beach into a dangerous situation. Understanding how to respond when caught in one is crucial. The weather service offers these life-saving tips:

1. Keep your cool – they won’t drag you under:

• Your first rule of thumb: Keep a clear head. Rip currents won’t pull you beneath the water’s surface. Panic is your enemy; it depletes precious energy needed for your survival.

2. Go with the flow, but not toward the beach:

• Trying to swim directly toward the beach when caught in a rip current is futile and exhausting. The current is too strong. Instead, swim parallel to the shore and away from the rip current’s grip.

3. Call for help if necessary:

• If you feel you can’t reach shore, relax, face the shore, and call or wave for help.

4. Seek lifeguarded beaches:

• Whenever possible, opt for beaches with lifeguards. Their watchful eyes and swift response can make all the difference in a water emergency.

5. Never brave the waves alone on unguarded shores:

• If you decide to swim at beaches without lifeguards, establish a cardinal rule: never go solo. Always bring a companion, and ensure they have a cell phone to call 911 if needed.

Rip currents are formidable natural forces, but knowing how to react can significantly increase your chances of safely navigating these challenging waters. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize safety when enjoying the surf.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.