Strong rip currents prompt beach hazard warning

SAN DIEGO (CNS) – Strong rips currents and 3-to-5-foot surf, with sets
to 6 feet, were expected along west-facing beaches in San Diego County Monday.

“High astronomical tides combined with elevated surf will create the
potential for minor tidal overflow and strong rip currents mainly along west-
facing beaches through Tuesday,” according to the National Weather Service,
which issued a beach hazards statement though Tuesday morning.

Rip currents were expected to be strongest during the late morning and
early afternoon hours when the high tide transitions to a low tide, the NWS
statement said.

The agency advised swimmers caught in a rip current to swim parallel to
the coast to get out of the current before trying to head for shore.