HAMPTON — Hampton Beach lifeguards rushed into the water to make 144 rescues in the last week in response to a sudden flurry of flash rip currents .

The summer had been slow up until two weeks ago, at which point only 51 rescues had been made, Hampton Beach Lifeguard Chief Patrick Murphy said. That has changed in the wake of Tropical Storm Dexter , which Murphy believes may have sent waves to the coast after 24 months of calm, flat water.

A rip current is a strong, narrow channel of fast-moving water that flows directly away from the shore. The current is formed as water coming into shore is redirected out to sea.

“We had consistent 3-5 foot surf for basically the entire week,” Murphy said. “When it comes in, it needs to go back out.”

Lifeguards track new threats along Hampton’

See Full Page