Rip Current — Pinellas, Florida

2014-10-04 · Pinellas, Florida

Event narrative

A 55-year-old man drowned off the coast of Treasure Island, most likely due to strong rip currents. Authorities were called to the 8400 block of Gulf Boulevard around 3 PM after receiving a 911 call. The call came shortly after beach-walkers spotted an unconscious body floating in the water near the beach and carried it to shore. First responders performed CPR on the man but they could not save him.

Wider weather episode

A strong, early-season cold front pushed through the area during the morning hours on 10/4. Winds quickly became onshore at 15 to 20 mph increasing the threat for rip currents along area beaches. Several water rescues had taken place in the surrounding area. A Rip Current Advisory was in effect at the time.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 538806. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.