Jacksonville

Jacksonville Weather Service Issues Coastal Flood Advisory and Warns of High Rip Current Risk in Duval County

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Published on October 12, 2024
Jacksonville Weather Service Issues Coastal Flood Advisory and Warns of High Rip Current Risk in Duval CountySource: Unsplash/Jonathan Ford

The National Weather Service in Jacksonville, Florida, has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory that will remain in effect until 4 AM EDT on Sunday. They are also warning of a high rip current risk through late tonight. The previous Coastal Flood Warning and High Surf Advisory have been canceled. Affected areas include Coastal Duval County, where minor coastal flooding and dangerous rip currents are possible, according to the National Weather Service.

According to the advisory, "Flooding of lots, parks, and roads with only isolated road closures expected," and "Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water." Beachgoers are advised to be especially cautious, as rip currents can be deceptive and life-threatening, as reported by the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service they further advise that if travel is necessary, to allow extra time, as some roads may be closed. They also urge people not to drive around barricades or through waters of unknown depth, and to take precautions to protect flood-prone property. If caught in a rip current, guides suggest to "relax and float" and not to swim against the current. If possible, swimmers should try to swim in the direction of the shoreline and signal for help if escape is not possible. These safety measures are particularly crucial, as rip currents can quickly endanger swimmers.