There’s a high rip current risk along the Grand Strand coast. How to stay safe

The National Weather Service issued a high rip current risk for coastal Georgetown County effective from 6 a.m. Wednesday and extended through Thursday evening.

The NWS cancelled Horry County’s high rip current risk around 11 a.m. Wednesday, but a beach hazard statement is in effect until Thursday evening. There is still a moderate risk for rip currents.

Strong north to south longshore currents are expected.

Coastal Georgetown County also faces a high surf advisory from 6 a.m. Wednesday through Thursday evening, with waves of 4 to 6 feet expected in the surf zone.

The NWS warns of dangerous swimming and surf conditions and localized beach erosion. Even the best swimmers can be swept into deeper water by a rip current.

What are rip currents?

Rip currents form when incoming waves push water toward the shore line creating an imbalance in the surf zone, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The water takes the path of least resistance, typically a break in the sandbar where the rip current is the strongest.

Rip current speeds are typically 1 to 2 feet per second, but have been measured at 8 feet per second, faster than an Olympic swimmer.

Over 100 drowning deaths from rip currents occur in the U.S. annually, according to NOAA. Rip currents account for the majority of lifeguard rescues. Drownings occur when swimmers are pulled from the shore and unable to keep themselves afloat. Swimming against the current can exacerbate exhaustion.

What to do if you’re caught in a rip current

The NWS encourages beach goers to swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don’t swim against the current, but if able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.

Inexperienced swimmers should stay out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions.

This story was originally published April 8, 2026 at 9:51 AM.