Lifeguards use rough water conditions, like tropical storms, to train in

The Action News Jax First Alert team is tracking sunny, warm weather for the upcoming weekend.

This comes after Tropical Storm Eta came through area beaches, bringing rain, winds and some rough surf.

This weekend, the seas won’t be as severe as they have been in the last few days, but still potentially dangerous surf, with surf averaging 3 to 4 feet.

The First Alert Weather team is forecasting a moderate to high rip current risk.

“We always tell people ‘swim near a lifeguard,’” Captain Rob Emahiser with Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue said. “Of course now this season there are no lifeguards on duty on towers.”

Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue will still be at their main response center on 1st Street and Beach Boulevard to respond to emergencies.

Action News Jax First Alert meteorologist Mike Buresh said it’s also important to note that after recent wave action, there are beach “scars” or troughs from the breaking waves that can create additional rip currents and unsure footing for walking in the water.

He adds that winds will average between 10 and 20 mph.

If you’re heading to the beach this weekend, lifeguards ask you to stay on the sand if you aren’t an experienced swimmer.

If you head into the water, bring a “buddy” with you.

Cox Media Group