Post-tropical Arthur brings rip current risk to Fort Myers beaches

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK)—The remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur will bring torrential rainfall to the central Gulf Coast through Thursday afternoon.

Flood watches are in effect from southern Louisiana to central Georgia. The heaviest rainfall is expected along the I-10 corridor from southern Mississippi to the western Florida Panhandle, where 4 to 8 inches could fall and lead to flooding.

Southwest Florida will not see any rain from Arthur's remnants. The only indirect impact from the system will be an elevated threat for rip currents today and tomorrow. Beachgoers should take note of a high risk for rip currents today and tomorrow.

The remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur are passing well to the north across the southeastern U.S. over the next 24 to 36 hours. That system is tightening the pressure gradient enough to bring occasionally breezy conditions locally, especially along the coast.

National Weather Service and National Sea Grant Program, in partnership with the United States Lifesaving Association, are working together to raise awareness about the dangers of rip currents and how to protect yourself.

Before heading to the beach, know how to swim. Just because you are in shallow water does not mean you are safe—a person standing waist deep in water can be dragged out into deeper waters and drown.

Check the Surf Zone Forecast for local beach conditions. Surf Zone Forecasts will contain Rip Current Outlooks using a three-tiered set of qualifiers: low risk, moderate risk and high risk of rip currents. Whenever possible, swim at a lifeguard-protected beach and ask a lifeguard about the conditions before entering the water.

Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and posted signs, never swim alone and stay at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties where permanent rip currents often exist. If caught in a rip current, relax and don't swim against the current. You may be able to escape by swimming out of the current in a direction following the shoreline, or toward breaking waves, then at an angle toward the beach.

You may also be able to escape by floating or treading water if the current circulates back toward shore. If you feel you will be unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by yelling and waving for assistance.

If you see someone in trouble, don't become a victim while trying to help someone else. Get help from a lifeguard or call 9-1-1, then try to direct the victim to swim following the shoreline to escape. If possible, throw the rip current victim something that floats. Never enter the water without a flotation device.