High Surf and Rip Current Warnings for North Florida Beaches

Jacksonville, Florida – The National Weather Service in Jacksonville has issued a High Surf Advisory and a High Rip Current Risk for the coastal areas of Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, and Flagler counties on Friday, June 21, 2024. These advisories will remain in effect through the day and into the night, warning of potentially dangerous beach conditions.

Rip currents are expected to continue along the east coast of Florida through tonight due to Invest 92L off the coast of Florida.

High Surf Advisory: Large breaking waves up to 7 feet are expected until 5 PM EDT today.

High Rip Current Risk: Dangerous rip currents are anticipated through late tonight.

Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing quickly away from shore, which occur most often at low spots or breaks in the sandbar and in the vicinity of structures such as groins, jetties, and piers. 

Remember to swim near a life guard and do not swim alone. Ask the beach patrol about ocean hazards when you arrive at the beach.

If you become caught in a rip current – do not panic – but yell for help.  Remain calm and do not exhaust yourself. Stay afloat while waiting for help. If you have to swim out of a rip current, begin to swim parallel to shore.  

Once you are away from the force of the rip current, begin to swim back to the beach. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current. Even a strong swimmer can become exhausted quickly.