No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeUncategorizedUnderstanding Rip Currents

Understanding Rip Currents

Rip currents (more commonly known as rip tides or undertows) are one of the most dangerous and ubiquitous members of Costa Rica’s beach communities.

While many factors, including weather, alcohol and misinformation, contribute to ocean-related deaths, the root of most tragedies is rip currents.

Before entering the ocean in Costa Rica (or anywhere) it is necessary to have a basic understanding of rip currents. Ninety percent of Costa Rica’s 150-200 annual drowning deaths occur in just 30 of Costa Rica’s 600-some beaches, and 80% of those who drown were caught in a rip current. With a little understanding of how the currents work, however, you can safely enjoy the ocean.

 WHAT IS A RIP CURRENT?

Rip currents form when there is an influx of water brought to the shore by waves. The accumulated water then seeks or creates a channel back to the sea in the area with the least resistance, usually between sand bars or at the deepest part of the ocean floor. This forms a current that acts like a swift river flowing away from shore at up to seven mph – faster than an Olympic swimmer.

The rip current consists of three parts: the feeder current, the neck, and the head. The feeder current runs parallel to the beach and is the source of the outgoing water. To gauge if you’re in a feeder current, you need to note landmark beach locations to keep orientated. If you thought you were stationary and suddenly find yourself 100 feet down shore, you could be in a feeder current.

At the beginning of the channel back to sea starts the “neck,” which can be in water as shallow as your knees. If you feel the current pulling you out and you can touch bottom, walk parallel to the beach, jumping forward with each wave. If the surf is rough, turn sideways as the waves come in so as not to lose balance. Keep moving until you’re out of the current. If you can’t touch, make sure you can float by arching your back, tilting your head back and pointing your nose in the air. Then, without panicking, let the neck pull you out to the head, which is where the current dissipates. This is generally just beyond the breakers. Once out in more tranquil waters, swim calmly back to shore at a 45-degree angle around the neck to avoid being pulled back into the same current. Then you can ride the waves in. The key is remaining calm. Whatever you do, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SWIM AGAINST THE CURRENT. This will only tire you out and cause more panic, which lower your chances of getting out easily.

SPOTTING A RIP CURRENT

Rip currents may look like muddy rivers flowing away from the shore. If the ocean is rough with surf, there may be foam along the neck and head. Another warning sign is if there are areas where waves don’t break and are surrounded by breaking waves. Near hard, white-sand beaches the currents may be harder to see. Always be wary when near a river estuary.

A good test is to throw a buoyant object into the water and see where the current takes it. And as always, it’s a good idea to ask around locally to ascertain the dangers of local beaches.

Remember, some beaches are frequented by surfers because the rip currents help them get out to the breakers; people in the water doesn’t necessarily mean that the area is safe.

TYPES OF RIP CURRENTS

There are four main types of rip currents. A type-1, or fixed rip, is usually found near man-made structures that alter the natural wave pattern is altered. A type-2, or flash rip, is a short-duration, unpredictable current influenced by surf conditions. A type-3, or permanent rip, is focused around structures or river estuaries. A type-4, or traveling rip, is formed on long, open beaches and travels with the prevailing wave direction.

These currents can be aided by the tide. Local lifeguards recommend giving an hour before and after high tide to let the currents calm a bit. Information on tides can be found in the newspaper and through local residents. Ask around.

Keep this information in mind before going for a swim or hitting the waves in Costa Rica. Knowing how to recognize and handle these currents can make your stay more enjoyable and safe.

Trending Now

Cosby Show Star Malcolm-Jamal Warner Dies in Costa Rica Drowning Accident

Malcolm-Jamal Warner passed away at 54 from an accidental drowning. He gained fame as Theo Huxtable on "The Cosby Show," playing the son in...

Starbucks Expands in Guanacaste with New Store Opening in Tamarindo

Starbucks continues to strengthen its presence in Costa Rica with the opening of its second store in the province of Guanacaste, specifically in Tamarindo....

Costa Rica Tops Latin America in Attracting Foreign Millionaires

Costa Rica is a country that attracts millionaires. Projections indicate that by the end of 2025, a total of 350 foreign millionaires will have...

Malcolm-Jamal Warner’s Drowning in Costa Rica Ruled Accidental

The death of American actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner has been confirmed as accidental drowning, according to Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ). Warner, 54, was...

A Closer Look at the Elusive Purple Gallinule in Costa Rica

Quick! Think of a purple bird! It’s a little difficult, right? I searched my brain and came up with a purple martin. A small...

Costa Rica Fails to Meet Human Rights Standards for Deportees

The Ombudsman's Office has confirmed that Costa Rica was unprepared to provide adequate care for deportees who have entered the country since February. This...
spot_img
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Rocking Chait
Costa Rica Travel

Latest News from Costa Rica