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Rip currents do not pull people under the water—they pull people away from shore. Drowning deaths occur when people pulled offshore are unable to keep themselves afloat and swim to shore. This may be due to any combination of fear, panic, exhaustion, or lack of swimming skills.
People standing on a beach often feel the water tugging the sand away from under their feet. This is the undertow, the current that pulls water back into the ocean after a wave breaks on...
WASHINGTON D.C. May 13, 2014 -- People standing on a beach often feel the water tugging the sand away from under their feet. This is the undertow, the current that pulls water back into the ocean after a wave breaks on the beach. Large storms produce strong undertows that can strip beaches of sand.
It will not pull you offshore into deep water. Undertow is typically only dangerous for small children who can't walk up the beach face against the strong backwash flow. Remember that only experienced swimmers and surfers should enter the water on big wave days.
It is important to note that undertows are not the same as rip currents or rip tides. Unlike rip currents, which can pull swimmers away from the shore, undertows do not have the power to drag a person underwater. While undertows are generally considered low-risk, it is crucial to remain calm if caught in one.
Oct 28, 2023 · Don’t panic, darling: The first rule of thumb when faced with an undertow is to keep calm. Panic will only leave you flailing about like a fish out of water, making it harder to escape. Float like a butterfly: If you find yourself caught in the grip of an undertow, try to stay afloat by floating on your back.
May 13, 2014 · FULL STORY. People standing on a beach often feel the water tugging the sand away from under their feet. This is the undertow, the current that pulls water back into the ocean after a wave...
