'Life-Threatening' Rip Currents Possible On LI Through Next Week

LONG ISLAND, NY — Some beaches are still open for a few more days this summer. And while attendance will be low today, those who do go should be wary of dangerous rip currents, the National Weather Service said.

The NWS released a warning about the dangerous rip currents, which is in effect until next week. It advised people don't enter the surf zone. The warning is in effect for all beaches along the South Shore of Long Island.

"Life-threatening rip currents are likely for all people entering the surf zone," the service said.

The NWS said the currents are likely to continue through the weekend due to energetic swells from Hurricane Earl, which is currently out in the mid-Atlantic and heading northward. It is not expected to make landfall on the U.S., but it's still affecting our shoreline.

Rip currents form in the water and flow away from the shore. They can move at one to two feet per second, but some have been recorded moving at 8 feet per second. Rip currents can sweep even the most experienced swimmers out into the ocean.

If you get caught in a rip current, do not try to swim against it. Try to relax and float. If you can, swim parallel to the shoreline to get out of the current. If you can't, face the shore and yell and wave for help.

Remember to only swim where lifeguards are present.