Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Atmospheric And Ocean Conditions And Social Aspects Associated With Rip Current Drownings In The United States, Charles Hugh Paxton

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research is to provide a better understanding of the physical and social aspects of rip currents in ocean areas that will lead to better forecasts, better governmental policies in beach areas, and ultimately to save lives. A rip current is a nearshore circulation in which breaking waves run up onto the beach then retreat rapidly in deeper channels back toward the sea. Rip currents pose a significant threat to beachgoers and can pull even the strongest swimmers out to sea. The primary factors associated with rip current formation on unarmored beaches are variations in the local …