Dangerous rip currents are expected at Miami Beach's Atlantic shoreline through Saturday morning, Aug. 8, after the National Weather Service issued a High Rip Current Risk advisory early Thursday, Aug. 6.

The advisory, issued at 3:01 a.m. Thursday, covers Coastal Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Strong onshore winds and rough surf are driving the hazardous conditions, which the NWS warns can sweep even strong swimmers away from shore into deeper water.

Beachgoers should swim only near staffed lifeguard towers and stay out of the water when red flags are flying. The advisory remains in effect until 8 a.m. Saturday.

Heat compounds the danger. Thursday's heat index values are expected to climb between 100 and 109 degrees, with air temperatures reaching the upper 80s along the beach and lower 90s inland.

What to do if caught in a rip current

The NWS advises swimmers caught in a rip current to relax and float rather than fight the current. Swim parallel to the shoreline until free of the pull, then head back to shore. If unable to escape, face the beach and wave for help.

Rip currents can exceed 5 mph, faster than an Olympic swimmer can sustain, according to NWS Miami data. Since 1979, rip currents have killed more people in South Florida than any other weather hazard combined, including hurricanes, tornadoes and lightning.

More storms Friday, Aug. 7, before conditions improve

An approaching weather disturbance will bring increased moisture and additional showers and thunderstorms Friday, especially overnight, according to WSVN meteorologist Vivian Gonzalez. Deep tropical moisture lingers into early Saturday before a gradual drying trend returns throughout the day.

Thursday's storm risk is lower along the coast, with easterly winds pushing the sea breeze and most afternoon storms inland. Any thunderstorm that does develop could produce heavy downpours, frequent lightning and gusty winds.

Miami Beach Ocean Rescue

Miami Beach Ocean Rescue staffs 38 lifeguard towers along the city's beaches with EMT-certified lifeguards, according to the Miami Beach Fire Department's strategic plan. In 2023, the division rescued 317 drowning victims from rip currents and completed more than 650,000 preventive actions.

The unit, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in July, watches over more than 20.4 million beachgoers annually.

To report a beach emergency, call 911.