The rip current risk at Jacksonville Beach has dropped from High to Moderate after a multi-day stretch of dangerous surf conditions, the National Weather Service Jacksonville confirmed Saturday, Sept. 12.

The NWS had issued a High Rip Current Risk through 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, warning that life-threatening rip currents were likely in the surf zone. East winds of 10 to 15 mph pushed surf heights to 3 to 4 feet, with water temperatures between 80 and 85 degrees and a heat index reaching 102.

The High risk on Sept. 9 followed another High Rip Current Risk on Tuesday, Sept. 8, that lasted through late that night. An earlier High risk was also issued on Thursday, Sept. 3. The agency's forecast covered beaches across Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties, including Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra Beach and Fernandina Beach.

No rescues or injuries tied to the elevated rip current period have been publicly reported by Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue or local police departments.

As of Saturday, the NWS forecast showed surf heights down to 1 to 2 feet with a Moderate risk still in effect. Under a Moderate rating, life-threatening rip currents remain possible. Surf is expected to hold at 1 to 2 feet through Sunday, Sept. 13.

The NWS rip current safety page notes that rip currents often form on calm, sunny days. The agency recommends swimming only at beaches staffed by lifeguards and checking the local beach forecast before heading out.

Beachgoers can view the latest conditions at the NWS Jacksonville beach forecast page. Call 911 for water emergencies.