The 10 ‘deadliest’ US beaches for hurricanes, surfing and shark attacks. How to stay safe

New Smyrna Beach was dubbed the “deadliest beach” in the U.S. in a recent analysis looking at surf fatalities, hurricane frequency, and shark attacks.

Travel Lens, an online travel publication, used data collected by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and The Shark Institute to determine America’s 10 “deadliest” beaches to visit. 

Since 2010, New Smyrna Beach has faced 10 surf zone fatalities and twice as many shark attacks as any other beach (32; surf zone fatalities and shark attack data is current through Jan. 13, 2023). The coastal town has also been hit with 120 hurricanes between 1851 and 2020, according to NOAA.

In second place is nearby Cocoa Beach, Florida, which has had as many surf zone fatalities as shark attacks (seven each), and 120 hurricanes. 

What’s everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day

More:How to photograph the rare green comet that is passing by Earth

Where are America’s most dangerous beaches?

Here’re the 10 most dangerous beaches from Travel Lens’ list:

1. New Smyrna Beach, Florida – 8.14/10 danger score
2. Cocoa Beach, Florida – 7.57/10 danger score
3. Ormond Beach, Florida – 7.48/10 danger score
4. Panama City beach, Florida – 7.16/10 danger score
5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – 6.61/10 danger score
6. Melbourne Beach, Florida – 6.35/10 danger score
7. Jacksonville Beach, Florida – 6.02/10 danger score
8. Oak Island, North Carolina – 5.54/10 danger score
9. Gulf Shores, Alabama – 5.38/10 danger score
10. Fort Lauderdale, Florida – 5.37/10 danger score

How to stay safe at the beach

To stay safe, you need to stay aware of the local weather and ocean conditions, such as tide forecasts, dangerous currents or other beach hazards, according to the National Weather Service. 

Before leaving for the beach, check the official surf zone forecast and beach advisories and closings.

• Know how to swim and swim near a lifeguard. 
• Bring flotation devices or a United States Coast Guard approved life jacket. 
• Know the beach’s address should you need to call for help.
• Know the location of life stations on the beach equipped with life rings that could be thrown to someone in trouble.

Camille Fine is a trending visual producer on USA TODAY’s NOW team. 

Article source: http://rssfeeds.usatoday.com/~/726172886/0/usatodaycomtravel-topstories~The-deadliest-US-beaches-for-hurricanes-surfing-and-shark-attacks-How-to-stay-safe/