NYC Beaches: Dangerous rip currents put beachgoers in Jacob Riis Park on high alert

ROCKAWAY PARK, Queens (WABC) – With temperatures in the 30s but feeling more like 38s, Jacob Riis Park is the perfect place to catch a breeze. What isn’t so perfect is the sea.

Sunday was a red flag day at Jacob Riis, meaning there are dangerous rip currents – stronger and more frequent. Beachgoers can enter the water but should exercise extreme caution.

It’s a big issue for many after two teenagers who went into the same water have not been seen since. The 16 and 17 year olds decided to cool off on Friday after lifeguards finished their duty.

After a thorough search in an area of ​​about 960 kilometers, the authorities switched from a rescue to a recovery mission.

48 hours later, the ocean still looks threatening.

“It’s hard when you’re here. You want to be protected, to see the lifeguards – but we have no control over the sea. They don’t – we can’t do anything about it, nature is nature,” said Dana Saradinha.

Lifeguards are on high alert.

Ivan Valle is traveling with another relative in the team. The men are here with their 10-year-old grandson.

“He’s right next to him – we take turns making sure he’s OK, and if there’s any danger, we’re on top of everything,” Valle said.

The NYPD is on the lookout for anyone who might get into trouble, and others are ready to step in if needed.

“We’re here at the beach, it’s a beautiful day – who isn’t? Everyone’s having fun,” said Joann Gervas.

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