Beach Hazards Series


A trip to the beach should be fun. Unfortunately, far too many people are injured or killed along our nation’s beaches by hazards such as dangerous currents, tsunamis, heat and lightning. The National Weather Service can help ensure you leave the beach with good memories.

NWS and our sister agency, the National Ocean Service, provide you the information you need to stay safe on beaches and in coastal areas and surf zones. A surf zone is defined as the area of water between the beach/shore and the first line of breaking waves. If you live on the Great Lakes you face a unique set of Beach challenges.