Rip tides, also known as rip currents, are powerful, narrow channels of water that flow swiftly away from the shore, often catching swimmers off guard. They’re caused by waves pushing water toward the beach, which then escapes back to sea through the path of least resistance. While not true tides, these currents can move at speeds up to 8 feet per second—faster than an Olympic swimmer! Stay safe by swimming parallel to the shore if caught in one, and always heed local beach warnings.
