A rip current is a powerful, narrow channel of water that flows away from the shore. It forms when waves break over sandbars or other underwater features, creating a strong current that pulls water back to the ocean. Rip currents can be dangerous for swimmers, as they can quickly carry them away from the beach. To identify a rip current, look for differences in water color, choppy waves, or foam moving seaward. If caught in a rip current, it is important to stay calm and swim parallel to the shore until free from the current, then swim back to the beach at an angle.