"Deadly Rip Currents and Indirect Impacts: Hurricane Lee's Concerning Developments"

Rip currents, which are the third leading cause of weather fatalities, have killed more people in the U.S. over the past decade than tornadoes or hurricanes. This year has been particularly deadly, with 76 deaths reported through August. As Hurricane Lee moves north in the Atlantic, forecasters are warning about the dangers of rip currents along the East coast. These currents are formed by heavy surf and can pull swimmers out to sea. Despite the high number of deaths, many beachgoers remain unaware of the risks posed by rip currents and are more concerned about sharks. Experts emphasize the importance of staying calm and swimming parallel to the shore if caught in a rip current.