Weekend Beach Plans: Safety Tips For South Louisiana Families

(KTDY) - Many in South Louisiana will be racing to the beaches along the Gulf Coast this weekend, and the water may be much improved after a few days of really dangerous waves and rip currents.

As we get closer to celebrating Independence Day, so many families are heading to the beautiful beaches in Alabama and Florida, and many have one thing on their mind: the sand and water.

Unfortunately for those who were at the beach a few days ago, the water was really rough and dangerous as Tropical Storm Arthur was churning in the northwestern portion of the Gulf, but things seemed to have calmed down.

Rip Current Forecast

Yesterday, on June 24, a friend was at the beach in Pensacola, Florida, and they reported on social media that the green flag was flying, indicating the water was rather calm and the rip current risk in the Gulf was low.

So, knowing that many of you have beach plans in your future, I looked at the rip current threat and forecast for the Gulf Coast this weekend and into next week, and it appears that, for now, the rip current threat is low.

That is great news for those visiting the Gulf Coast this weekend and into early next week.

Beach Safety Tips

Now, while the threat of rip currents may be low this weekend, according to the National Weather Service, we remind you to always be safe while in the water and never let kids swim alone.

Rip currents can still form near piers, gellies, and rocks; you should still have your guard up while at the beach. Remember to always obey the lifeguard's flags, as red and double red flags indicate danger in the water.

What I am about to say next may not come as a shocker, but while the rip current forecast may be low this weekend along the Gulf Coast, there are still dangers in the water, like sharks and other marine life. If you see a purple flag flying at the beach, that means dangerous marine life is present, and you should be on alert.

I hope you have a great trip to the beach as we approach the Fourth of July, and remember to always apply sunscreen to yourself and others while enjoying the waves.

While the rip current threat may be low this weekend in the Gulf, we want you to know what a rip current is and how to spot them while out on the beach. This is something every parent should watch before visiting the beach.