Elevated rip current risk begins midnight Aug. 16

DOVER — The National Weather Service issued a Coastal Hazard Message taking effect at midnight Aug. 16 warning of elevated rip current risk for Delaware Beaches until midnight Aug. 19.

The weather service warns the high risk of rip currents may persist into next week, and rough seas can be expected, with surf in the 5-8 foot range within the warning area.

Always swim at guarded beaches, the weather service said, noting even the best swimmers can fall victim to rip currents. If caught in a rip current, swim or float parallel to the shore, wave or call for help, and wait for an opportunity to escape the strong current without fighting it, the weather service explained.