Texas Rip Current Statement | Effective 05/17/2026 22:05

Headline: 
Rip Current Statement issued May 18 at 12:05AM CDT until May 19 at 9:00PM CDT by NWS Houston/Galveston TX
Event: 
Rip Current Statement
Urgency: 
Expected
Effective: 
May 17, 2026 - 10:05pm
Expires: 
May 18, 2026 - 6:15am
Description: 
* WHAT...For the Beach Hazards Statement, high risk of rip currents and elevated tide levels. For the High Rip Current Risk, dangerous rip currents expected. * WHERE...Gulf-facing beaches, including the Matagorda Peninsula, Brazoria County beaches, Galveston Island and the Bolivar Peninsula. * WHEN...For the Beach Hazards Statement, until 10 AM CDT Monday. For the High Rip Current Risk, from 10 AM CDT Monday through Tuesday evening. * IMPACTS...Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water. High wave run up on area beaches possible. Water may briefly approach the Highway 87/124 intersection around high tide times. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Localized minor coastal flooding will be possible during times of high tide mainly near Galveston Bay.
Instruction: 
Swim near a lifeguard and away from rocks, jetties, and piers. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don't swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help. Remain out of the water to avoid hazardous swimming conditions.
Area Description: 
Matagorda Islands; Brazoria Islands; Galveston Island; Bolivar Peninsula
Forcast Office: 
NWS Houston/Galveston TX