A rash of rip current deaths in the Florida Panhandle.
At least nine people have been killed just this month
in the Panama City Beach area in Bay County.
Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford sent us this statement expressing
the difficulties for first responders.
Quote. I am beyond frustrated at the situation that we
have with tragic and unnecessary deaths in the Gulf.
I have watched deputies, firefighters and lifeguards risk their lives
to save strangers.
I've seen strangers die trying to save their children and
loved ones.
Including two fathers on Father's Day,
the Sheriff's Office also sent us these photos taken Sunday,
which they say shows channels from the rip currents along
the shoreline.
There were 36 water rescues that day alone.
Remember, there doesn't have to be a storm,
high waves, or any bad weather around for rip currents
to occur.
All it really takes is wind blowing from offshore onto
the beach.
Weather patterns like this are very common in the summer.
That's why it's so important to pay attention to beach
conditions.
Always swim where there's a lifeguard and know what their
flags mean.
Check Noah Surf Zone Forecast for your area before heading
out.
And if you do encounter a rip current,
the most important thing is do not panic.
Keep breathing, try to keep your head above water and
don't exhaust yourself trying to fight it.