Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Portland OR
1234 PM PDT Thu Aug 12 2021

ORZ001-002-WAZ021-140000-
North Oregon Coast-Central Oregon Coast-South Washington Coast-
Including the cities of Astoria, Cannon Beach, Tillamook,
Netarts, Pacific City, Lincoln City, Newport, Cape Foulweather,
Yachats, Florence, Raymond, Long Beach, Ocean Park, Naselle,
Cathlamet, and Cape Disappointment
1234 PM PDT Thu Aug 12 2021

…BEACHGOERS BEWARE OF COLD OCEAN WATER…

As the region experiences dangerously hot temperatures through
Saturday, many will want to seek refuge from the heat and head to
the beach. However, some are not familiar with Oregon’s normal
beach hazards, including but not limited to rip currents, sneaker
waves and cold water temperatures. High beach visitation rates
occurred during the June heatwave, and resulted in increased
rescue rates and deaths.

Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from
shore, and can sweep even the strongest swimmer away. If at all
possible, swim near a lifeguard. Don’t swim against the current
directly to shore, swim along the shoreline until you escape the
current’s pull.

The current temperature of the ocean water along the Oregon’s
coastline ranges between 50 and 60 degrees. This impacts the body
much more severely compared to air temperature, and can lead to
loss of breathing control, heart and blood pressure problems, and
a high risk of suddenly drowning.

Therefore, residents and visitors who are planning to seek relief
at the beach from the excessive heat inland, should stay very
informed and aware of ocean hazards, wear a wetsuit and/or life
preserver if going out or in the ocean, and if possible, stay near
a lifeguard.

$$