Dangerous rip currents expected at Mass. beaches as Tropical Storm Fay approaches

WESTPORT, Mass. — As Tropical Storm Fay approaches New England, rough surf and rip currents are expected at some of Massachusetts' beaches.

Waves could be as high as six feet on Saturday, with moderate rip currents expected particularly in south-facing beaches.

At Horseneck Beach in Westport Friday night, surfer Jake Silvia said the waters were already choppy.

“Sorry, I’m out of breath. There’s rip currents. It’s strong,” Silvia told Boston 25 News after getting out of the water. “Trying to fight your way back to shore, the wind coming this way.”

Strong rip currents can sweep even the most experienced swimmers away from the coast and out to deeper water in moments. A swimmer caught in a rip current should swim parallel to the shore.

Last week, 83 swimmers were safely rescued from rip currents at Hampton Beach in New Hampshire, beach patrol told Boston 25 News.

A full staff of lifeguards will be at Horseneck Beach Saturday. Despite some rain in the forecast, a period of dry weather is expected in the afternoon.

Silvia said he has rescued swimmers from rip currents in the past and hopes he doesn't have to Saturday.

“They hit the shallow here, and then suddenly the tide’s coming in,” Silvia said. “It goes from two feet to four feet to six feet. Next thing, you’re getting sucked out.”

Cox Media Group