Charleston SC, September 1, 2025
News Summary
Charleston’s National Weather Service has issued a rip current warning from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. as Hurricane Erin impacts the area, creating dangerous swimming conditions. Beachgoers are advised to stay close to lifeguards and heed local warnings to ensure their safety. Education on rip currents is crucial, with past statistics showing high rates of drowning in similar conditions.
Charleston, SC: National Weather Service Issues Rip Current Warning as Hurricane Erin Approaches East Coast
On Monday at 1:52 a.m., the National Weather Service (NWS) in Charleston, South Carolina, updated a rip current warning valid from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. This warning is applicable to Coastal Colleton, Coastal Jasper, Beaufort, and Charleston counties, where the NWS anticipates dangerous rip currents due to the influence of Hurricane Erin.
Rip currents are powerful channels of water that flow away from the shore and can pose a significant threat to swimmers, potentially sweeping even the strongest individuals into deeper waters. Beachgoers are strongly advised to swim within designated areas and near lifeguards. In the event of being caught in a rip current, swimmers should remain calm, float, and avoid swimming against the current. Instead, they should swim parallel to the shore until they can escape the current. If unable to break free, individuals are encouraged to face the shore and signal for help.
This rip current warning is effective until 8 p.m. on the same day. The NWS also notes that rip currents can reach speeds of up to eight feet per second, which increases their danger. Swimmers are urged to avoid entering the ocean during periods of high rip current risk, as conditions are expected to remain hazardous throughout the week due to ongoing influences from Hurricane Erin.
Experts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) emphasize the serious nature of rip currents, which have resulted in a tragic history of drownings in the United States. Since 2020, at least 25 people have drowned in rip currents in the U.S., including two this year in South Carolina alone. Additionally, data indicates that approximately 900 individuals have lost their lives to rip currents nationwide since 2010. Alarmingly, men account for about 86% of these fatalities, with a significant portion occurring in recent years.
Michael Bradley, overseeing the lifeguard program at Folly Beach County Park, reported that lifeguards often assist individuals struggling against rip currents, reinforcing the need for public awareness regarding water safety during extreme weather conditions. Various beaches along the East Coast, particularly in North Carolina and surrounding areas, have reported numerous rescues linked to the hazardous beach conditions generated by Hurricane Erin.
Beachgoers are reminded to always check local flag warnings and surf advisories before venturing into the water to ensure their safety. In addition to high rip current risks, the upcoming weather may also lead to beach erosion and localized coastal flooding.
Safety Tips for Beachgoers
- Check local flag warnings and surf conditions.
- Always swim within designated swimming areas.
- Stay near lifeguards for safety assistance.
- If caught in a rip current, remain calm and float.
- Swim parallel to the shore, not against the current.
- Signal for help if unable to escape.
Background on Rip Currents
Rip currents are formed when water that has washed onto the beach drains back to the ocean through narrow channels. They pose a significant threat, especially during storm conditions when wave activity is increased. Education and awareness are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring safe enjoyment of beach activities.
Further Precautions
As Hurricane Erin continues to affect coastal weather, the risk of rip currents will likely remain elevated. Swimmers and beach visitors are advised to remain vigilant and responsive to changing conditions throughout the week.
FAQs
What are rip currents?
Rip currents are fast-moving channels of water that flow away from the shore at surf beaches and can drag swimmers into deeper water.
How can I stay safe from rip currents?
Swim near lifeguards, stay within designated areas, and check local warnings before going into the water. If caught in a rip current, float, stay calm, and swim parallel to the shore.
What should I do if someone is in trouble in a rip current?
If you see someone struggling in a rip current, call for help and signal to them to float and try to swim parallel to the shore.
How many drownings occur due to rip currents?
Since 2010, about 900 individuals have died due to rip currents in the U.S., with a notable number occurring each year.
Key Features of Rip Current Warning
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Issued By | National Weather Service (NWS) Charleston SC |
| Validity | 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the day of warning |
| Affected Areas | Coastal Colleton, Coastal Jasper, Beaufort, and Charleston counties |
| Rip Current Speed | Up to 8 feet per second |
| Drownings Since 2010 | Approximately 900 |
| Male Fatalities Percentage | 86% of rip current fatalities |
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Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Rip Current
- Live 5 News
- Google Search: Hurricane Erin rip current
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rip Current
- USA Today
- Google News: Hurricane Erin South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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