Riptides and strong ocean currents were responsible for multiple rescues over Labor Day weekend. One person has been confirmed dead and one missing as a result of rough surf at the Jersey Shore.
Rip current warnings were issued all weekend by the National Weather Service, but many braved the churning waves as summer came to an unofficial end.
Powerful rip currents over the Labor Day weekend led to multiple rescues and at least two fatalities along the Jersey Shore. More than a dozen swimmers had to be pulled from the surf in locations such as Seaside Park and Belmar.
In Seaside Park, authorities continued their search for a missing man on Monday afternoon. On Long Beach Island, Stephen Houser, 35, of Toms River, captured a video showing the rescue of several swimmers by himself and nearby lifeguards after they were pulled out to sea by rip currents.
A 24-year-old man drowned in Beach Haven on Sunday, adding to the weekend’s toll.
Although Labor Day has passed, warnings for rip currents remain in effect through Tuesday night.