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Articles on rip currents

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The gap between breaking waves in North Carolina indicates a rip current flowing away from shore. National Weather Service

Rip currents are dangerous for swimmers but also ecologically important – here’s how scientists are working to understand these ‘rivers of the sea’

Rip currents are a leading cause of near-shore drownings, but there are effective ways to survive one. And these phenomena also play important ecological roles that are an emerging research area.
Swimming pool closures at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic led to millions of Canadians missing swimming lessons. (Shutterstock)

Fewer swimming lessons and lifeguard shortages make swimming even riskier this summer

Gaps in swimming lessons, lifeguard shortages and climate change may make water-based activities even riskier this summer.
When you’re at the beach this summer be aware of the dangers of the rip. Marcus Hansson

Don’t get sucked in by the rip this summer

On average 21 people drown each year in rip currents on Australian surf beaches. This value exceeds the long-term annual average of fatalities caused by bush fires, floods, cyclones and sharks combined…

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