Southern California Lifeguards Rescue 500+ Swimmers Amid Dangerous Rip Currents

During the Fourth of July weekend, Southern California beaches experienced hazardous surf and rip current conditions that led to lifeguards rescuing over 500 swimmers. Huntington Beach reported more than 150 rescues, with rip currents extending hundreds of yards offshore, prompting doubled lifeguard staffing and the deployment of rescue boats. Newport Beach saw an even higher number of rescues, over 350 on Friday alone, including a dramatic incident where lifeguards saved 10 swimmers from a "monster rip current," captured in widely shared videos. Lifeguard Battalion Chief Adam Yacenda advised swimmers caught in rip currents to stay calm, keep their heads above water, and swim parallel to shore to escape the powerful currents. The National Weather Service issued ongoing Beach Hazard Statements warning of continued dangerous conditions through Sunday evening, emphasizing the risk posed by the ocean's strong currents and high surf. Lifeguard efforts were crucial in preventing drownings amid thousands of holiday beachgoers facing unexpectedly perilous ocean conditions.