High risk for rip currents in effect along South Carolina coast

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)- Dangerous rip currents are possible along the South Carolina coast Friday as Tropical Storm Debby continues to generate swells in the Atlantic.

The National Weather Service advised that a high risk for rip currents is in effect through Friday evening with 3-5 foot waves expected in the surf zone.

Lowcountry beaches included in the advisory are Cape Romain, Isle of Palms, Sullivans Island, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Edisto Beach.

Rip currents are fast-moving channels of water flowing away from the shore. They form when waves break near the shoreline, piling up water between the breaking waves and the beach.

A high risk indicates that life-threatening rip currents are likely in the surf zone and beachgoers are encouraged to stay out of the water or use extreme caution when swimming.

“They can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore,” according to NWS.

If you find yourself caught in a rip current, relax and float – don’t swim against the current. If you are able, swim in a direction that follows the shoreline.

If needed, tread water and wave or call for help.

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