Gulf Shores experienced its second drowning of the season after a visitor lost their life while swimming in the Gulf. Emergency teams responded quickly to the situation, but efforts to save the swimmer’s life were unsuccessful. The incident prompted renewed concern over beach safety among city officials who cautioned that rip currents have increased risks for swimmers and stressed the importance of following posted safety notices.

The drowning occurred on Tuesday, August 12, near the Lighthouse Condominiums in Gulf Shores. This marks the second drowning in the city in 2025. Officials have identified rip currents as a primary factor in the incident, which underscores ongoing hazards for those venturing into the Gulf during summer months. 

First responders were dispatched promptly after receiving the emergency call. Beach safety teams and local emergency medical responders acted swiftly but sadly were unable to save the swimmer. The drowning victim was identified as a 53-year-old man from New York. 

Local leaders and beach safety experts are urging residents and visitors to be vigilant when entering the Gulf. They recommend swimming only in designated areas when lifeguards are present and regularly checking weather and water condition updates. Recent drownings have heightened the sense of caution among families frequently visiting Gulf Shores.

Rip currents are a top cause of drownings along Alabama beaches. The strong currents quickly flow away from shore, pulling swimmers underwater.

The easiest way to identify a rip current is to look for a calm area of water surrounded by waves. The area that appears to be calm is likely a rip current.

Officials say it is important to avoid those small patches. However, if a swimmer does get caught in a rip current, they should remain calm and swim parallel to the shoreline until they are free of the current.

The beach flag warning system alerts the public to dangerous currents and marine life. A yellow flag represents moderate surf and conditions, and a single red flag represents high surf and currents. A double red flag indicates the presence of dangerous rip currents and signifies that the waters are closed to the public. A purple flag warns of dangerous marine life.