Rip currents expected along Panhandle beaches

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | Tbo.com
Published: January 11, 2012

» Comments | Post a Comment

TALLAHASSEE — State emergency management officials say there is a high to moderate risk of rip currents along Florida Gulf coast beaches.

Beachgoers are urged to use extreme caution today and Thursday, especially if red flags are flying.

Deputy State Meteorologist Michelle Palmer says strong winds over the Gulf of Mexico are causing breaking waves of five to seven feet. That's causing rough conditions along the Florida Panhandle beaches. She warns of a moderate risk along the rest of the state's Gulf beaches.

A red flag means conditions in the Gulf of Mexico are considered dangerous.

Rip currents are narrow, powerful currents that run perpendicular to the beach.