This study proposes the use of field observations and self-made
buoys equipped with GPS as good tools for identifying and monitoring
rip currents. Rip currents were found to be more frequent
and strong on late spring and summer with a pulse-like behavior,
probably due to the arriving of energetic waves generated by
storms that interact with local bathymetry and tides, promoting
their generation and intensification. Results suggest that the crossshore
was higher than the along-shore velocity, indicating that
there are conditions that could pull swimmers offshore, representing
a risk for users. The collected data will be especially useful
for the implementation and validation of numerical hydrodynamic
models that will be used for spatial and temporal forecasting of
potentially dangerous RCs at SB.
The purpose of this study was to establish the spatial distribution
and rip current velocities to determine the potential risk for
beach users. This information is the basis for a Security Strategy
Bathing Beach (BBSS) which is a cyclical process to identifying this
phenomenon, their monitoring, information for users and monitoring
as a strategy for coastal management to avoid risks and even
deaths by drowning. This model can be replicated in other tourismoriented
places in the world.