Rip currents cause over 100 drownings annually in the U.S., with warnings and predictions aiding beach safety.

Rip currents, fast-moving water channels that pull swimmers away from the shore, are a serious beach hazard, causing over 100 drownings annually in the US. Forming in low spots or near structures, they can move faster than swimmers and are often hard to spot. If caught, swimmers should stay calm, swim parallel to the shore to escape the current, and seek help from lifeguards. Flags and warnings alert beachgoers to risks, and the National Weather Service predicts conditions that may lead to rip currents up to six days in advance.