On Sunday at 1:40 p.m. a rip current statement was issued by the National Weather Service valid from Monday at 6 p.m. until Wednesday for Mobile and Baldwin counties.

“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” comments 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.”

This statement is in effect until Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Mastering rip currents: Your safety guide

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:

• Don’t panic – rip currents won’t pull you underwater.

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

4. Seek lifeguarded beaches for added safety:

• 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 on beaches without a lifeguard, never swim alone. Take a friend and have that person take a cell phone so that person can call 911 for help.

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.

Source: The National Weather Service

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.