The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Juan warned of a high risk of rip currents at northern Puerto Rico beaches, from Aguadilla to Fajardo, until tonight. The federal organization advised swimmers to avoid entering the sea, as rip currents can sweep even experienced swimmers out to deeper waters. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of water flowing away from the shore, often forming near gaps between sandbars and piers.
Preliminary NWS data shows 18 people have died at local beaches so far this year. The NWS also forecast a typical weather pattern for this time of year, with partly to mostly sunny skies and little rainfall in most areas. However, there is a 40% chance of rain, with showers expected to develop in the western interior and northwest of Puerto Rico in the afternoon.
Tomorrow is expected to be the most active day in terms of shower frequency, although not necessarily intensity.