Spüströmungen

Spüströmungen, also known as rip currents, are powerful, narrow channels of water moving directly away from the shore. They are a common hazard at beaches worldwide and can pose a significant threat to swimmers. Spüströmungen form when waves push water towards the shore, and this water then needs to return to the sea. This return flow can become concentrated in a channel, creating a fast-moving current.

The strength and width of a spüströmung can vary greatly. While some may be barely noticeable, others can be strong enough to pull even a strong swimmer out to sea. They are often difficult to spot from the shore, but signs can include a channel of churning or choppy water, a difference in water color, or a line of foam or debris moving seaward.

If caught in a spüströmung, the most important advice is not to panic and not to try to swim directly against the current. Instead, swimmers should try to swim parallel to the shore until they are out of the current. Once free of the spüströmung, they can then swim back to shore. If unable to swim out of the current, it is recommended to float or tread water and wave for help. Lifeguards are trained to identify and rescue people caught in spüströmungen. Beach safety signage often provides information about local rip current conditions and prevention.