Rip currents cause multiple drownings in Florida and Alabama beaches.
Ten people have drowned on Alabama and Florida Panhandle beaches in less than two weeks, with eight of those in the last eight days. Strong rip currents have been singled out in several recent incidents, including those where the swimmers were ultimately rescued. The average age of the male victims was 56 and in most of the cases, single red flags were posted. Lifeguards, deputies, and firefighters have risked their lives to save strangers, but beachgoers often seem to have resistance to obeying safety warnings.