Warning about the risks of Rio Grande do Norte beaches

By Lutiane Queiroz de Almeida, professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) and coordinator of the Georisk Research Group
With the intense heat typical of summer in the southern hemisphere, the beaches of Rio Grande do Norte become refuges for local bathers and tourists. However, these leisure spaces also carry dangers, such as drowning, which may be related to rip currents – one of the main causes of fatal accidents on the coast of Rio Grande do Norte.
A recent study conducted by researchers from the Georisk Research Group, at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), brought alarming data on the topic. The research reveals that the urban beaches of Natal, such as Ponta Negra and Areia Preta, concentrate the highest number of drowning and rescue incidents, especially in areas close to groynes and artificial barriers that favor the formation of rip currents. These phenomena occur when the water from the waves that dissipate on the beach returns to the sea in a concentrated form, creating areas of strong drag that surprise even experienced swimmers.
Data collected between 2017 and 2021 show 411 cases of rescues related to these chains, with 38 deaths recorded. In 2025, the RN Military Fire Department has already rescued 25 people from drowning situations, but unfortunately two deaths have been confirmed so far.
In addition to the lack of knowledge about the characteristics of rip currents, factors such as the consumption of alcoholic beverages and overcrowding of beaches in the summer aggravate the risks. “Ignorance and lack of perception of danger make rip currents even more lethal,” warns the study, which emphasizes the need for efficient signage and the constant presence of lifeguards.
The data are the result of the course completion work of José Luiz Pessoa Maia, a military firefighter from RN, supervised by professor Lutiane Almeida.
Focus on preventive education
In the context of summer, Operation Summer intensifies preventive actions, such as the distribution of educational materials, awareness blitz and increasing the number of lifeguards on busy beaches. Initiatives such as the “Surfe Salva” project have also trained surfers to assist in rescues, increasing the effectiveness of care.
For experts, educating the population is essential. “Understanding the dynamics of beaches, recognizing risk areas and respecting the guidelines are simple measures that can save lives”, points out the article.
Recommendations for bathers
When visiting the coast, bathers should observe signs, avoid apparently calm areas (which can hide rip currents) and avoid excessive alcohol consumption before entering the sea. It is important that there is supervision and use of buoys for children, always paying attention to areas identified as safe and under the observation of lifeguards.
With world-renowned beaches, Rio Grande do Norte is a privileged summer destination. However, to ensure that memories are only of joy, it is essential to combine fun with safety.
To read the full text, visit: https://impactum-journals.uc.pt/territorium/article/view/13781