Rip Current — Southern Queens, New York

2019-07-30 to 2019-07-31 · Southern Queens, New York

Direct deaths

Injuries

Event narrative

An 18-year-old man died in Rockaway Beach waters when he went for a swim after dark and no lifeguards were on duty. His body was discovered near a jetty, according to police.

First responders rushed to Beach 61st Street on Tuesday night July 30th after receiving 911 calls for two distressed swimmers shortly before 8 p.m. A 14-year-old was pulled from the water and transported to St. John's Hospital in stable condition.

Rescuers spent hours searching for the 18 yr old swimmer in the water but were unable to locate him. Members of Engine 265 and Ladder 121 participated in the rescue.

Wider weather episode

Persistent southwest flow, 3 to 4 ft winds waves, and high astronomical tides resulted in moderate rip current activity on July 30th.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 848556. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.