Rip Current Statement issued October 8 at 12:00PM EDT until October 12 at 4:00AM EDT by NWS Tallahassee FL

* WHAT…For the High Rip Current Risk, dangerous rip currents. For the High Surf Warning, dangerously large breaking waves of 8 to 12 feet expected in the surf zone. * WHERE…Walton and Bay County Beaches. * WHEN…For the High Rip Current Risk, through late Sunday night. For the High Surf Warning, from 10 AM Friday to 10 AM CDT Sunday. * IMPACTS…Breaking waves can sweep people off jetties and docks, and into dangerous seas. Life-threatening swimming conditions and significant beach erosion can be expected. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.

Official safety instructions

Everyone should remain out of the water due to life-threatening surf conditions. Stay off of jetties, piers, and other waterside infrastructure. Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don't swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.

National Weather Service: View official alert and latest details.