High risk of rip currents for Lake Superior beaches

The National Weather Service issued a warning about the high risk of rip currents along the Lake Superior shoreline for Friday. Dangerous swimming conditions for Park Point and Wisconsin Point beaches effective Friday at 9 a.m. through Friday evening. Persistent onshore wind from 15-20 mph with some higher gusts are expected. Waves of 2 to 3 feet is also possible.

High wave action can make swimming difficult as incoming waves in rapid succession can tire a swimmer quickly.

Strong winds in the Twin Ports have kicked up Lake Superior and officials say the wave action can support rip currents.

Rip currents are life-threatening to anyone entering the water. Officials say even calm waters after storm activity can support rip currents, so beach-goers should wait for the warning to expire before going into the water.

The National Weather Service has some tips to understand Rip Currents. If you are caught in a rip current, you should relax. Rip currents will not pull you under the water, it will pull you further from shore. Do not try to swim against the current, instead swim in a direction following the shoreline. If you are unable to swim out of the rip current, float or tread water. If you are unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by yelling or wave for assistance.

If you see anyone struggling, officials urge you to call 911. Try to direct the victim to swim following the shoreline. If possible throw the victim something that floats. Do not enter the water.

More information on conditions and rip currents can be found by visiting the Park Point Beach website
at www.parkpointbeach.org.