The Brian Lehrer Show Hurricane Erin Closes Local Beaches
Aug 20, 2025
Greg Dusek, a senior scientist at NOAA, dives into the potential dangers posed by Hurricane Erin hitting East Coast beaches. He shares critical insights about rip currents that intensify during storms and offers vital survival tips for swimmers. The conversation highlights real-life experiences, warning about the unpredictable nature of water currents. Dusek underscores the importance of staying informed and adhering to safety measures at local beaches, reminding listeners of the essential role of lifeguards during such severe weather.
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Rip Currents Are Fast And Deadly
- Rip currents are seaward-directed jets of water that occur on any beach with breaking waves.
- They can exceed five miles per hour and are the leading cause of drownings at beaches in the U.S.
Wave Height Trumps Storm Category
- Once waves exceed about three to four feet, rip currents become a hazard regardless of storm category.
- With 10–15 foot waves expected, the waves themselves become the primary safety concern.
Rips Can Be Fixed Or Transient
- Rip currents can be fixed by bottom features like sandbar channels or transient and move around during storms.
- During large storms transient rips can appear anywhere, so hazards are widespread and unpredictable.