“Don’t become a statistic,” the NWS said on social media. “When in doubt, don’t venture out. Always swim near a lifeguard & away from jetties/piers.”
GALVESTON, Texas — If you’re thinking about heading to the beach to take advantage of the sunny weather, the Nation Weather Service has a warning: Keep an eye out for rip currents.
Editor’s note: The above video is from KHOU 11’s previous coverage on beach safety.
The NWS said there is a high risk of rip currents through Monday for gulf-facing beaches, including beaches on Galveston Island, Bolivar Peninsula, Brazoria County, and the Matagorda Peninsula.
“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” the NWS said in an alert.
The weather service also said elevated tides may cause flooding on beaches, parks and roads. They highlighted spots like Highway 87 and Highway 124, western parts of Galveston Island, Bluewater Highway and the Surfside area.
“Don’t become a statistic,” the NWS said on social media. “When in doubt, don’t venture out. Always swim near a lifeguard & away from jetties/piers.”
If caught in a rip current, do not try to swim directly against it. Swimmers may be able to escape by moving along the shoreline and then angling back toward the beach. If you are unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself.
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