Beaches across New York City reopened Saturday, August 23, following a three-day closure caused by Hurricane Erin, according to ABC7 News. While sunny skies and warmer weather have returned, officials are warning beachgoers about strong rip currents, which can make swimming extremely dangerous.
Authorities are urging visitors to swim only when lifeguards are on duty, which is typically from 10 AM to 6 PM during the summer, as per the NYC Parks Department.
Long Island Beaches Welcome Swimmers with Caution
On Long Island, Long Beach in Nassau County reopened for swimming on Saturday. However, Suffolk County beaches remained closed through the morning as lifeguards monitored red flag conditions, ABC7 reported.
Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that swimming resumed at Jones Beach State Park, while Robert Moses State Park in Babylon allowed only knee-deep wading.
“Life-threatening rip currents will be present at all ocean beaches across the state,” Hochul warned.
Officials continue to monitor rough surf, coastal flooding, and erosion across Long Island. The Suffolk County Department of Health Services kept Atlantic Ocean beaches and southern Fishers Island beaches closed until Saturday morning for safety checks.
Additional updates:
- A summer festival at Jones Beach was postponed.
- Easthampton reopened beaches for foot traffic only—swimming and beach driving remain prohibited.
Jersey Shore Under Rip Current Warnings
The Jersey Shore has not fully reopened for swimming yet. Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency on Thursday after strong winds and waves caused flooding and beach erosion.
Murphy posted a warning on social media: “Absolutely no one should be in the water today or tomorrow.”
Despite the warning, some swimmers in Sea Bright entered the water, where no lifeguards were on duty, increasing the risk of accidents. Several Jersey Shore towns also reported street flooding during high tide, including Avalon and Margate.
Safety First
Authorities urge all beach visitors in NYC, Long Island, and New Jersey to stay cautious and avoid swimming during dangerous rip current conditions.
