A high rip current risk is in effect across New York City beaches today, and officials are urging swimmers to stay out of the water—especially at beaches without lifeguards.
The National Weather Service says life-threatening rip currents are likely through 8 p.m. Monday, August 25. Red flags were spotted flying at Coney Island, warning beachgoers that swimming is not allowed.
According to the city’s Notify NYC alert, rip currents can pull even strong swimmers away from the shore and into deeper water. Officials are warning all beach visitors to avoid the surf zone entirely if no lifeguard is present.
The alert also includes important safety tips for anyone who may get caught in a rip current:
- Don’t swim against the current
- Stay calm and float
- If possible, swim parallel to the shoreline to escape
- Signal for help if needed
This advisory is part of a broader hazardous weather outlook that includes Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island. While conditions are expected to improve on Tuesday, extra caution is urged for the rest of the day.