Body of Good Samaritan recovered after rip current rescue in Myrtle Beach
See real-life examples of rip currents
This video from NOAA shows what rip currents look like from the beach, how to spot them, and what to do if you get caught in one.
A Good Samaritan was pulled underwater and later found dead after successfully rescuing a young girl from a rip current Friday night.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:53 p.m. near 10th Avenue South in Myrtle Beach, after lifeguards had already gone off duty.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RIP CURRENTS, RIP TIDES AND UNDERTOWS?
According to authorities, the Good Samaritan managed to get the girl to safety before being pulled underwater by the current.
FILE: Rip current flag.(JAYDEE LEE SERRANO / AFP / Getty Images)
The Myrtle Beach Police and Fire departments launched a search that continued into the following morning.
Authorities confirmed that the missing swimmer's body washed ashore and was recovered at 1:00 p.m. Saturday.
Rip currents typically move at 1 to 2 feet per second, but dangerous swells can accelerate up to 8 feet per second.
This intense speed allows them to rapidly overpower swimmers and sweep them far out to sea.