On Wednesday at 3:09 a.m. a beach hazards statement was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until Thursday at 3 a.m. The statement is for Coastal Volusia, Coastal Indian River, Coastal St. Lucie, Coastal Martin, Mainland Northern Brevard, Northern Brevard Barrier Islands, Mainland Southern Brevard and Southern Brevard Barrier Islands.

The NWS states to be ready for, “A strong, southward flowing longshore current developing in the surf zone, as well as a Moderate Risk of dangerous rip currents.”

“Strong currents in the surf zone can pull swimmers into deeper water, as well as generate additional rip currents near piers, jetties, and reefs,” explains the NWS. “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.”

Source: The National Weather Service