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NYC closes most beaches to swimming as dangerous rip currents threaten coast
By
Phil Corso
Published Aug 3, 2026
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Andrew Lichtenstein/Corbis via Getty Images
By
Phil Corso
Published Aug 3, 2026
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Most New York City beaches were closed to swimming on Monday as forecasters warned that dangerous surf and rip currents could make entering the water life-threatening.
New York City Parks officials said swimming is prohibited at Coney Island and Manhattan Beach in Brooklyn, Rockaway Beach in Queens, and Midland Beach, South Beach, Cedar Grove Beach and Wolfe's Pond Beach on Staten Island. Orchard Beach in the Bronx remains open for swimming, officials said.
The closures come as the National Weather Service forecasts a high risk of dangerous rip currents and breaking waves of five to seven feet along the region's Atlantic coastline.
"The safety of New Yorkers is our top priority," Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura said in a statement. "We strongly urge all New Yorkers to heed these warnings and not risk their lives by entering the water."
Beachgoers can still use the sand, but Parks Enforcement Patrol officers will be stationed at affected beaches to keep swimmers out of the water, city officials said.
The beach closures come as heavy rain and thunderstorms were also expected across the city Monday, with the National Weather Service warning that downpours could produce localized flash flooding in low-lying areas and places with poor drainage.
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new york city
public safety
Phil Corso
Phil Corso is the evening news editor at WNYC/Gothamist. Got a tip? Email [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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