Whipping winds are increasing the threat of deadly rip currents at South Florida beaches.
Lifeguards have put up red flags along Fort Lauderdale Beach warning of strong currents.
"I get antsy knowing that there's waves, because it's usually pretty flat," said surfer Daisy McCoy.
She cautiously took on the ocean Tuesday, as the National Weather Service warned of a high risk of rip currents from Palm Beach County south through Miami-Dade County.
The average beachgoer may not be able to identify a rip current.
"A rip current is a channel of water that pulls you out to sea. It doesn't hold you under the water, it just pulls you out to sea. If you do get caught in one the best thing to do is to remain calm," said Gio Serrano of Fort Lauderdale Ocean Rescue.
If you venture out into the water, do so by a lifeguard post.
Local
"The biggest thing is don't fight it, swim parallel to the shore and eventually you will get out," swimmer Ed Kirik said.
Strong winds and breezy conditions are expected through the end of the week.
