Can you get pulled under in a lake?

Dispelling the Myth of the Rip Rip currents do not pull people under the water; they pull people away from shore. The rip current is typically the strongest about a foot off of the bottom, which can cause your feet to be knocked out from under you making it feel like something under the water was pulling you.



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Underwater currents can form in lakes, rivers and oceans, and there are many reasons why they happen.

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You may have heard about the rip tide or undertow before. These are terms that people commonly use to describe dangerous currents. However, since there are no tides in the Great Lakes (needed to form a rip tide) and currents don't pull a person down under the water (undertow), they are a bit inaccurate.

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Undertow is a phenomenon that occurs in bodies of water, including rivers, when waves push water up onto the shore and then that water flows back out to sea, creating a strong current beneath the surface of the water.

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Fast-moving currents, waves and rapids, even in shallow water. Hazards, such as dams, underwater obstacles, or rocks and debris. Vegetation, animals and fish. Drop-offs that can unexpectedly change water depth.

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Know before you go Before you head out, check online to find out if the swim area is currently monitored, is under advisory, or has been closed for health or safety reasons. This is especially important after a heavy rain.

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Dangerous currents and breaking waves are common in the Great Lakes region. Rip currents and other currents found near piers are extremely dangerous for swimmers and can lead to drownings.

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