Lifeguards Warn of Dangerous Rip Currents at Florida Beaches

Rough surf and high rip current risks pose serious dangers for swimmers along the coast.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vast, atmospheric seascape painting featuring dramatic waves and churning surf, conveying the overwhelming power and scale of the ocean.Powerful waves and rip currents create hazardous conditions for beachgoers, underscoring the need for caution and vigilance when enjoying the ocean.Palm Beach Today

Lifeguards at Stuart Beach in Palm Beach County, Florida are urging beachgoers to be cautious as rough surf and high rip current risks create hazardous conditions along the coast. Last week, several incidents involving rip currents were reported, including the death of a man from Maine. Lifeguards are advising swimmers to check in with them before entering the water, follow flag warnings, and know what to do if caught in a rip current.

Why it matters

Rip currents can quickly pull swimmers farther out than expected, turning a fun day at the beach into a life-threatening situation. This warning comes as the summer beach season approaches, when crowds and dangerous conditions can create a deadly mix, especially for tourists, children, and weaker swimmers.

The details

Ocean lifeguard Chris Dunn explained that the main thing to do if caught in a rip current is to not panic, look back to shore, and signal for help. Lifeguards in Martin County have also partnered with the website SafeBeachDay.com to provide beachgoers with real-time conditions, including rip current warnings, before they arrive. Beachgoers are encouraged to pay attention to flag warnings, with a red flag indicating hazardous conditions and a double red flag meaning the water is closed.

  • Last week, Palm Beach County experienced several incidents involving rip currents, including the death of a man from Maine.
  • On Thursday, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue reported that three youths were caught in a rip current, but there were no injuries.

The players

Chris Dunn

An ocean lifeguard who explained what swimmers should do if caught in a rip current.

SafeBeachDay.com

A website that Martin County Ocean Rescue has partnered with to provide beachgoers with real-time conditions, including rip current warnings, before they arrive.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“So, the main thing to do is not panic. Look back to shore and signal for help. And if you're at a lifeguarded beach, we'll likely already be on our way.”

— Chris Dunn, Ocean Lifeguard

What’s next

Lifeguards in Martin County emphasized that they recommend swimming at lifeguarded beaches and checking in with lifeguards before entering the water.

The takeaway

This warning highlights the importance of being aware of rip current risks and following the guidance of lifeguards to stay safe at the beach, especially as the summer season approaches and crowds increase.