A rip current statement was issued by the National Weather Service on Sunday at 3:24 p.m. valid from Tuesday 1 a.m. until Thursday 1 p.m. for Mobile and Baldwin counties.

“Dangerous rip currents expected,” adds the weather service. “Confidence is increasing that high surf will impact the Alabama and western Florida panhandle beaches Tuesday through Thursday. High surf advisory or warning products may become necessary.”

“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” describes 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 are channelized currents of water flowing away from shore at surf beaches. The speeds can vary from moment to moment and can quickly increase to become dangerous to anyone entering the surf. Rip currents can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore. Trying to swim against a rip current will only use up your energy; the energy you need to survive and escape the rip current. If you get caught in a rip current, try to stay calm and follow the below advice from the weather service:

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. Don’t swim against the current:

• Don’t swim towards the beach against the rip current. Instead, swim parallel to the beach and out of the rip current.

3. Call for help if necessary:

• If you find yourself unable to make it back to shore, stay calm. Turn to face the shore, tread water, and signal for help by calling out or waving your arms. Rescuers are more likely to spot you.

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 swim alone on unguarded beaches:

• If you choose to swim at beaches without lifeguards, make it a rule never to swim solo. Always bring a friend, and ensure that person has a cell phone to call 911 in case of an emergency.

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.