The reverse currents, also known as chipping or explosive currents (rips), are a real and periodically arising danger on the coast of Cyprus. Although there is no exact official statistics of their occurrence, numerous messages, rescue warnings and news reports indicate that this phenomenon is not rare, especially in certain areas of the island.
The most commonly dangerous currents are found on the west coast of Cyprus, in particular, in the pathos area. This area is exposed to strong western winds, which contribute to the formation of powerful waves and, as a result, reverse currents. Beaches with a certain bottom morphology, for example, with sandy braids and promoons, are also high -risk zones.
The main areas where there are reverse currents:
● The coast of Paphos. Here such currents are common. The news archives contain reports of tragic cases and numerous rescue operations associated with reverse currents. Some beaches have warning signs.
● other areas. Although pathos is mentioned most often, potential danger exists on other sections of the coast, especially on days with strong excitement at sea.
When do the reverse currents occur?
Reverse movements are not constantly present. Their appearance depends on a number of factors, including:
● Strong excitement at sea: the higher and more powerful the waves, the greater the likelihood of rips.
● The direction of the wind: winds blowing perpendicular to the coast can strengthen this process.
● Morphology of the seabed: the presence of sandy braids, shallows and tears in them creates the conditions for the formation of channels through which the water rushes back into the sea.
The problem is aggravated by a lack of rescuers
It is important to note that in recent years there has been an acute shortage of qualified beach rescuers in Cyprus. This means that even on equipped beaches, a proper level of safety can not always be ensured, which increases risks for swimmers.
How to recognize the reverse course?
● Rupture in the wave line: a calm section of water between the broken waves.
● Channel for boiling water: a strip of water perpendicular to the shore, which can differ in color (be more muddy or, conversely, darker).
● The movement of foam or algae from the shore: a noticeable flow that takes away floating objects into the sea.
What to do if you are in the reverse course?
● Do not panic! This is the main rule.
● Do not float against the current to the shore. This will lead to a quick loss of strength.
● Swim parallel to the shore. Thus, you can get out of the narrow channel of the current.
● signal the help: if you cannot swim, attract people on the shore.
In conclusion, although reverse currents are not daily phenomenon on all Cyprus beaches, they pose a serious and repeating threat, especially in the pathos area under certain weather conditions. Tourists and local residents should always be careful, pay attention to the warning signs and the state of the sea, as well as know the rules of conduct when it gets into such a course.
The material was prepared by Ekaterina Andreevakanal in Telegram
