The Duluth Fire Department has issued an urgent warning today, alerting residents and visitors of perilous swimming conditions at Park Point beaches. According to their official statement, the advisory will remain in effect immediately and continue until 10:00 A.M. tomorrow.

This warning is in place due to a high risk of rip currents – swift and powerful channels that can be deadly for those who venture into the water. The Department has urged all to stay out of the water regardless of their swimming experience. They further caution that even in the seeming tranquility after storms, these rip currents are still a present danger. Those who choose to ignore the alert run a high risk of being caught up in these treacherous currents.

To signal the hazardous conditions, red flags have been erected at strategic locations along the beach, including the South Pier (south of the Lift Bridge), 12th Street Beach, Lafayette Park, and two spots at Park Point Beach. The Fire Department has indicated it will notify the public should swimming conditions become safe before the expiration of the current warning.

For updates and more detailed information on the conditions and the nature of rip currents, beachgoers are encouraged to visit the Park Point Beach website. The Duluth Fire Department's announcement can be accessed at www.duluthmn.gov.