Beachgoers warned about rough surf, rip currents at the Jersey Shore
Swimmers at the Jersey Shore are being advised to stay cautious due to potentially dangerous rip currents. Forecasters say periods of onshore wind and storms far out to sea are stirring up the ocean.
News 12 Staff
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Sep 1, 2016, 3:03 AM
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Updated 2,794 days ago
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Swimmers at the Jersey Shore are being advised to stay cautious due to potentially dangerous rip currents.
Forecasters say periods of onshore wind and storms far out to sea are stirring up the ocean.
"They are predicting the next storm will bring large waves. I have to wait and see. We'll man as many stations as we feel we can safely handle," says Manasquan head lifeguard Harry Neill.
Red and yellow flags were posted along various portions of the shore Wednesday warning swimmers of the dangers.
In Bradley Beach, swimmers were not allowed in water deeper than their knees on Tuesday due to the rough surf.
Rip currents often form near jetties and piers so it is advised for swimmers to stay away from them. A swimmer who gets caught in a rip current should swim parallel to the shoreline to escape.
Neill says that the worse scenario would be if it's a bright sunny day with a crowded beach, rough surf and limited lifeguards.
"It's possible we can have this this weekend. Which means I'll just be a nervous wreck," he says.
Beachgoers are advised to only swim in the ocean when lifeguards are present
The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.
