California beach warning issued over dangerous rip currents - 'Stay out of the water!'

The National Weather Service (NWS) released a beach hazards statement early Saturday morning, warning of large waves and strong rip currents for parts of Southern California over the holiday weekend.

The NWS predicted waves of 4 to 6 feet with sets up to 7 feet along south-facing beaches in San Diego and Orange County areas.

Thousands were expected to flock to popular beaches in the area during the Fourth of July weekend, though the swell predictions could spell danger for even experienced swimmers.

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"Strong rip currents will create hazardous swimming conditions," the NWS said. "Remain out of the water."

A rip current is a strong current that moves seaward, and is found at surf beaches and near fixed structures such as piers.

They can be very deep and stretch hundreds of feet from shore, catching unsuspecting swimmers in the pull who sometimes find themselves unable to keep themselves afloat or swim back to shore.

Rip currents are the most threatening of all coast hazards in San Diego, according to the city's safety guidance.

"The United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) has found that more than 80% of the rescues performed by ocean lifeguards involve saving those caught in rip current," the website says. "Additionally, the USLA estimates the number of deaths due to rip currents on our nation's beaches exceeds 100 annually."

Lifeguards in San Dieogo and Orange County are reportedly preparing for an increase in water rescues and emergency calls over the holiday weekend.