High risk of rip currents, rough surf expected along South Florida beaches this weekend

High risk of rip currents, rough surf expected along South Florida beaches this weekend

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The National Weather Service said there’s a high risk of dangerous rip currents Saturday evening.

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Forecasters also warned of hazardous surf conditions, with waves between six and eight feet and strong northeast winds gusting up to 35 mph. The dangerous conditions are expected to last through the weekend.

Swimmers are being urged to stay out of the water. Fort Lauderdale Beach Patrol Lt. David Ochoa explained what to do if caught in a rip current.

“First is wait for help,” he said. “And second is float on your back — the salt in the ocean is gonna float you. Float on your back, get out of the current, calm down. Eventually the waves will bring you back toward the shore. Or swim parallel to shore — swim north or swim south.”

Ochoa said conditions have been relatively calm overall, but beachgoers should remain cautious.

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About The Author
Byron Tollefson

Byron Tollefson

Byron Tollefson joined Local 10 News as a reporter in July 2025.