A Guide To Nature’s Elements and Planning Your Next Adventure

High rip current risk through Friday night

Click to enlarge the forecast

A High Rip Current Risk remains in effect through Friday afternoon, meaning life-threatening rip currents are likely in the surf zone. Even experienced swimmers can quickly get into trouble in these conditions, so it’s safest to stay out of the Gulf until conditions improve.

Friday will otherwise be a hot beach day, with mostly sunny skies, highs around 90 degrees, light southwest winds, and surf of 2 to 3 feet. Water temperatures remain in the mid 80s, and the UV index will be extreme, so sunscreen and plenty of water are recommended if you’re spending time outdoors.

Conditions begin improving Friday night as the rip current risk drops to moderate, with surf decreasing to 1 to 2 feet.

By Saturday, the risk is expected to fall to low, with surf around 1 foot and mostly sunny skies. While that’s welcome news for beachgoers, it’s important to remember that rip currents can still occur even during a low-risk forecast, especially near piers, jetties, and other structures.

Looking ahead, a moderate rip current risk is forecast to return Sunday and continue into early next week as surf builds back to around 2 to 3 feet.

Anyone visiting Alabama beaches this weekend should continue checking the latest beach flags before entering the water and always swim near a lifeguard when one is available.

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