Palm Beach County Coastal Hazard Statement as of 1:11 PM EDT on April 17, 2014

High risk of rip currents in effect until 8 PM EDT this evening...

The National Weather Service in Miami has issued a high rip current risk...which is in effect until 8 PM EDT this evening.

* Timing...through this evening.

* Impacts...hazardous swimming conditions are expected along the Palm Beach coast.

Precautionary/preparedness actions...

There is a high risk of rip currents.

Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing quickly away from shore...which occur most often at low spots or breaks in The Sandbar and in the vicinity of structures such as jetties and piers. Heed the advice of lifeguards and the beach patrol. Pay attention to flags and posted signs.

If you become caught in a rip current...do not panic. Remain calm and begin to swim parallel to shore. Once you are away from the force of the rip current...begin to swim back to the beach. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current. Even a strong swimmer can become exhausted quickly.